Centipede vs Millipede: Differences

Centipedes and millipedes are often mistaken for each other due to their long, segmented bodies and numerous legs. However, these two arthropods have distinct behaviors, diets, and ecological roles. Centipedes are agile predators that help control insect populations, while millipedes are slow-moving decomposers that contribute to soil health.  In this article, we’ll look at their differences to help you identify them correctly and take the necessary steps to manage their presence in your home or garden. Not sure what’s crawling around your home? Our experts offer a free pest inspection to identify and address the issue quickly. Schedule your free inspection today and keep your home pest-free!

What is a Centipede?

Centipedes are predatory arthropods that use speed and venom to capture insects. They prefer dark, damp environments such as basements, under rocks, or decaying logs. Though they can bite if provoked, they are not dangerous to humans and are beneficial for pest control. Centipedes help keep insect populations in check, but their presence indoors may indicate high humidity or other pest issues. Though their bite can cause mild irritation, they are more of a nuisance than a serious threat.

Habitat Preferences of Centipedes

Centipedes favor dark, moist environments due to their need for high humidity to survive. Common habitats include:

• Under stones, logs, leaf piles, and garden debris.
• Damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and crawl spaces.
• Dark corners and crevices within homes, particularly during dry periods or colder seasons.

Diet and Hunting Behavior of Centipedes

Centipedes are predatory carnivores that actively hunt their prey:

• Primarily feed on insects, spiders, and small arthropods.
• Use venomous claws to immobilize their prey swiftly.
• Typically hunt at night, relying on their speed and agility.

What is a Millipede?

Millipedes are slow-moving decomposers that feed on decaying plant material, contributing to soil health. They thrive in damp environments like mulch, under logs, or in leaf litter. Unlike centipedes, they do not bite and rely on curling up or releasing a foul-smelling chemical when threatened. Millipedes are harmless to humans and pets but can be troublesome when they enter homes in large numbers, usually during rainy seasons. Managing moisture and sealing entry points can help prevent infestations.

Habitat Preferences of Millipedes

Millipedes prefer moist, protected environments rich in organic matter. Common habitats include:

• Decaying logs, mulch, leaf litter, compost piles, and garden soil.
• Damp basements, garages, or other moist indoor areas.
• Shaded areas in yards, gardens, and flowerbeds.

Diet and Feeding Habits of Millipedes

Millipedes are detritivores, primarily feeding on decaying plant material:

• Consume leaf litter, rotting wood, compost, and fungi.
• Assist in breaking down organic material, contributing positively to soil health.
• Rarely damage live plants, but large populations may occasionally feed on seedlings or soft plant tissue.

Key Differences Between Centipedes and Millipedes

Now that you understand the basics of each creature, let’s examine their key differences.

Feature	Centipede	Millipede
Body Structure	Flattened, elongated body	Cylindrical, rounded body
Legs Per Segment	One pair per body segment	Two pairs per body segment
Movement Speed	Fast, agile	Slow, deliberate
Diet	Carnivorous, preys on insects	Herbivorous, eats decaying plants
Defense Mechanism	Venomous bite	Curling up, releasing chemicals
Habitat	Damp indoor and outdoor areas	Mostly outdoor, damp soil, mulch
Threat to Humans	Can bite but not dangerous	Completely harmless
Preferred Environment	Humid, dark areas indoors and outdoors	Moist environments, rarely indoors

Potential Risks of Centipedes and millipede

While centipedes and millipedes are mostly harmless, both can pose certain risks when they invade your home or garden. Understanding these potential dangers helps you manage them safely and effectively.

Signs of Infestation

Identifying an infestation early helps in managing centipedes and millipedes effectively:

Toxicity and Venom (Centipedes)

Centipedes possess venomous claws (forcipules) used for capturing and subduing prey:

• Their venom is generally not lethal to humans but can cause pain, redness, and localized swelling.
• Individuals with allergies or sensitivities may experience more severe reactions, requiring medical attention.
• It is advised to handle centipedes cautiously and avoid direct contact.

Defensive Secretions (Millipedes) Millipedes lack venom but rely on defensive secretions:

• When threatened, millipedes curl into a tight coil and secrete foul-smelling or irritating liquids.
• Secretions can cause skin irritation, redness, or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Avoid handling millipedes directly and wash skin thoroughly if contact occurs.

How to Prevent Millipedes and Centipedes from Entering Your Home

Millipedes and centipedes often seek shelter in moist, dark environments around homes. Here are practical tips to keep these pests away from your living spaces:

When to Call a Pest Control Professional

Contact a professional if:

• Infestations persist despite DIY control measures.
• Large populations are causing discomfort, repeated encounters, or property damage.
• Individuals in the household experience severe reactions from bites or defensive secretions.

Myths and Facts About Centipedes and Millipedes

Myth	Fact
Centipedes are venomous and dangerous.	Centipede bites might be painful but are not deadly.
Millipedes can cause structural damage.	Millipedes feed on decaying plant matter, not wood.
Centipedes and millipedes are the same.	They are different species with different traits.
Millipedes can bite like centipedes.	Millipedes do not bite; they are harmless to humans.
Centipedes only live in gardens.	Centipedes can also be found indoors in damp areas.

If you are unsure which pest is infesting your home, contact our pest control experts and get a free estimate today!