x4 Zebra millipedes (Spirobolellus sp)
Common Name: Zebra Millipede | Scientific Name: Spirobolellus spp.
Species Overview and Background:
Spirobolellus spp., commonly known as Zebra Millipedes, are a group of millipedes found in various regions of Australia. These striking millipedes are known for their distinctive black and white banded patterns along their cylindrical bodies. While they are not as commonly kept as some other invertebrates, Zebra Millipedes have garnered interest among enthusiasts due to their unique appearance and intriguing behaviors. These smaller round backed millipedes (3-4cm) found in Eastern Australia. These awesome guys glow under UV light. They spend most of their time buried but do come out at night time to eat and explore.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Care Level: Moderate
- Origin: Australia
- Found in Wild: Yes
- Temperature Range in Celsius Degrees: 20-25°C
- Life Span: 2-3 years
- Gestation Period: Approximately 30 days
- Humidity Levels: 70-80%
Color & Appearance:
Zebra Millipedes, specifically Spirobolellus spp., are renowned for their striking appearance. They feature elongated, cylindrical bodies adorned with bold black and white banding patterns. These alternating black and white bands run along each body segment, creating a zebra-stripe-like appearance. Zebra Millipedes typically grow to a length of around 10 centimeters, depending on the species and environmental conditions.
Care and Requirements:
Zebra Millipedes, including Spirobolellus spp., require a moderate level of care and attention, making them suitable for hobbyists with some experience in keeping invertebrates. They are detritivores, primarily feeding on decaying plant matter, leaf litter, and organic debris within their enclosure. These millipedes play an essential role in nutrient cycling by breaking down organic materials, contributing to the overall health of their captive environment.
Maintaining suitable humidity levels is crucial for their well-being. Zebra Millipedes thrive in a high-humidity environment, so providing a moist substrate and regular misting of the enclosure is necessary to keep them comfortable and prevent desiccation.
Zebra Millipedes are primarily nocturnal and prefer to hide in leaf litter or under objects in their enclosure during the day. They are solitary animals and should be housed individually or in small groups, depending on the species and the size of the enclosure.
Their diet consists mainly of decaying leaves, so offering a variety of leaf litter from safe tree species, such as oak or maple, is recommended to ensure they have a suitable food source.
Additional Information:
- Zebra Millipedes, like Spirobolellus spp., contribute to maintaining a clean and balanced terrarium or vivarium environment by aiding in the decomposition of organic matter.
- While they are relatively hardy, providing proper humidity and substrate conditions is vital for their overall health.
- Avoid overfeeding, as excess food can lead to mold growth and negatively impact the millipedes' environment.
- Zebra Millipedes can coexist with various reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates that do not prey on them. However, avoid housing them with animals known to eat millipedes.
- Breeding Spirobolellus spp. can be a fascinating experience. Female millipedes may lay eggs, which will hatch into tiny offspring. Providing a suitable environment with hiding places and maintaining appropriate conditions can encourage successful breeding.
- A tiny species suitable for smaller enclosures and keepers with space limitations.
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Currently Being Fed: MilliLeaf by AquaTerra
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Package Includes:
- x4 Zebra millipedes (Spirobolellus sp) - size is random subject to availability.