Description
Scolopendra viridis – Arizona Blue Centipede
Meet Scolopendra viridis, the Arizona Blue Centipede — a beautifully understated native species that rewards close inspection with surprising elegance. At first glance, the light beige body appears almost sand-colored, perfectly suited to its arid desert habitat. Look closer and you'll catch it: a subtle but unmistakable wash of cool green and blue iridescence along the body segments and legs that gives this species its common name and sets it apart from other North American centipedes.
Smaller and more manageable than the giant desert centipedes it shares range with, S. viridis is a fast, alert predator native to the desert Southwest. It's an excellent choice for keepers looking to explore North American myriapods without committing to the sheer size and venom output of Scolopendra heros. That said, make no mistake — this is still a centipede, and it demands the same respect and careful husbandry as any other member of the genus.
Care Highlights
- Type: Arid Desert Centipede
- Origin: Southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas)
- Temperament: Fast and defensive; experienced keepers recommended — venomous
- Adult Size: 3 inches
- Enclosure: Arid terrestrial setup; secure lid essential; burrowing substrate or cork bark hides
- Temperature: 75–85°F (24–29°C); a thermal gradient is beneficial
- Humidity: Low — dry substrate with a small moist corner; avoid sustained dampness
- Feeding: Aggressive feeder; appropriately sized roaches, crickets, or mealworms
- Venom: Yes — painful sting; not recommended for handling
What You'll Receive
- One (1) live Scolopendra viridis — size per variant selected
- Live Arrival Guarantee — we stand behind every animal we ship
- Packed with heat or cold packs as needed for safe transit
Size availability listed by variant. All animals are healthy, feeding, and ready to ship.
