Description
Scolopendra sp. ‘Java Black’ — Mt. Merapi Giant Centipede
From the volcanic slopes of Mount Merapi on the island of Java, Indonesia, comes one of the most striking all-black giant centipedes in the hobby. Scolopendra sp. ‘Java Black’ — also known as the Mt. Merapi Giant Centipede — is a large, powerfully built species with a deep, uniform jet-black coloration across the body and legs. No banding. No contrast. Just pure, glossy black from head to tail forcipules.
The Java Black is the centipede equivalent of a blacked-out muscle car — understated, menacing, and impossible to ignore.
Why Collectors Love This Species
- Uniform jet-black coloration — deep, glossy black across the entire body and legs; one of the cleanest all-black centipedes available in the hobby
- Volcanic locality — native to the slopes of Mt. Merapi, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes; a geographically compelling and rare provenance
- Impressive size — a large, robust Scolopendra with a powerful, heavy-bodied build that commands attention in any enclosure
- Extreme rarity — seldom available in the US hobby; a genuine collector’s specimen
- Bold and active — fast-moving, confident, and an aggressive feeder; endlessly engaging to observe
Care Overview
- Origin: Old World — Java, Indonesia (Mt. Merapi locality)
- Enclosure: Secure terrestrial setup with escape-proof lid; deep substrate (5–7") with cork bark or flat rock hides
- Temperature: 76–86°F
- Humidity: Moderate to high — 70–80%; keep one side of substrate slightly moist
- Diet: Large crickets, roaches, and other appropriately sized prey; powerful and aggressive feeder
- Venom: ⚠️ Like all large Old World Scolopendra, this species possesses medically significant venom. Bites are extremely painful and can cause intense localized pain, severe swelling, and systemic symptoms. Never handle — use long tongs for all maintenance without exception.
- Experience Level: Advanced — for experienced invertebrate keepers only
Live Arrival Guarantee
Every specimen ships with our Live Arrival Guarantee. In the unlikely event of a DOA, photo and video documentation of the unopened or just-opened package is required to process a claim. Contact us immediately upon receipt.
