Tanzanian Red Leg Millipede Care Sheet

Tanzanian Red Leg Millipede
ADULT FEMALE & MALE
Specimen provided by Frank Somma.
Photo taken by Jon Fouskaris.

A Tanzanian Red Leg Millipede makes a very beautiful millipede pet. Sporting black body color with bright red legs, this millipede is one of the prettier species. The difference between sexes in this species is very clear. Tanzanian Red Leg Millipede males are have a shiny body, while the females are dull in body coloration. You can see the difference in the photo to the left. Tanzanian Red Leg Millipedes do breed in captivity, so specimens should be purchased from a breeder, as some of the millipedes taken from the wild will refuse to eat in captivity. Millipedes born in captivity tend to be less picky when food is concerned. The Tanzanian Red Leg Millipede is a relatively large millipede, and is docile, like most millipedes are. Therefore, a captive-bred Tanzanian Red Leg Millipede is a great choice for an appealing millipede pet.

Range	Tanzania.
Type	Terrestrial, but will burrow to some extent.
Diet	Babies and adults eat apples, cucumbers, oak leaves and other plant material. Millipedes should have a supply of calcium added to their diet, like calcium powder, which can be purchased from most pet stores.
Full Grown Size	4 to 6 inches.
Growth	Slow speed.
Temperature	75 to 80° F.
Humidity	Around 75%.
Temperament	Docile and calm.
Housing	Babies can live in a roomy clear plastic container with air holes. Adults can live in a 5 to 10-gallon tank, depending on the number of millipedes. Millipedes can live communally. The tank should be twice as long, and at least as wide as the individual, or the largest millipede in the tank. Floor space is more important than height.
Substrate	2 to 3 inches of peat moss, or potting soil.
Decor	No decorations are really needed. Moss can be added for floor cover.
Other Names	Tanzanian Red Legged Millipede, Red Leg Millipede, and Red Legged Millipede.

*Please note that ALL millipedes can secrete a liquid that can be dangerous to some people. Although most people are not affected by this species, some people may be allergic to the liquid, or just more sensitive, making it a dangerous situation, especially if put into the eyes or mouth. Affects of this millipedes' natural defenses may vary between people. All millipedes can secrete this liquid, so be careful, because you don't want to find out if you are allergic or more sensitive the HARD WAY!