Description
Scolopendra longipes – Florida Keys Giant Centipede
Rare, powerful, and found nowhere else on Earth — Scolopendra longipes, the Florida Keys Giant Centipede, is one of the most coveted centipede species in the North American hobby. Endemic to the limestone hammocks and rocky coastal scrub of the Florida Keys, this impressive giant is a true collector's piece: a large, robust Scolopendra with the added prestige of being a native US species found only in one of the most ecologically unique regions in the country. If you want a centipede with a story as compelling as its appearance, S. longipes delivers.
Why Collectors Love This Species
- Rare endemic species — Native exclusively to the Florida Keys, S. longipes is one of the few giant centipedes with a US origin, making it a standout in any serious collection.
- Impressive size — A true giant, reaching lengths of 6–8"+ at maturity with a powerful, heavily built body that commands respect.
- Striking appearance — Bold body coloration with long, prominent legs that give this species its name — a visually impactful animal in any display setup.
- Active predator — Fast, alert, and a formidable hunter. Watching S. longipes take prey is a display of raw invertebrate athleticism.
Care Snapshot
- Origin: Florida Keys, USA (endemic)
- Adult Size: 6–8"+ in length
- Enclosure: Secure, escape-proof setup with a deep substrate layer (coconut fiber/topsoil mix), cork bark hides, and a shallow water dish
- Temperature: 75–85°F
- Humidity: Moderate — 60–70%; keep one side of enclosure slightly moist
- Diet: Crickets, roaches, superworms, and other appropriately sized prey items
- Experience Level: Advanced keepers only — this species is fast, defensive, and capable of a potent bite. Always use tongs and proper safety protocols when interacting.
Live Arrival Guarantee
Every Scolopendra longipes ships with our Live Arrival Guarantee. In the unlikely event of a DOA, photo and/or video documentation is required to process a claim. We stand behind every animal we ship.
