If you’re an enthusiast of the eerie, rare and intriguing creatures of the world, then the Vietnamese Centipede will certainly capture your interest. Armed with lightning speed, a somewhat formidable size, and a poisonous bite, this critter isn’t one to be taken lightly. However, thanks to their fascinating characteristics, they’re a popular choice among invertebrate collectors worldwide.
Zooming Into the Lair of the Vietnamese Centipede
While sporting a somewhat monstrous appearance, the Vietnamese Centipede is more than just an eerie figure. It’s an important part of the ecosystem in the regions it calls home, from Vietnam to other tropical Southeast Asian countries, and even as far as Hawaii. Despite stalking the same landscapes as humans in these areas, this particular subset of the centipede category doesn’t pose as substantial a danger as some might fear… unless you let it get too close!
Relation to the Scolopendra Giants
The Vietnamese Centipede is classified under a family called Scolopendromorpha and belongs to the Scolopendra subspinipes species. Its close relatives include some of the biggest centipedes known to mankind.
Meet the Family
- Peruvian Giant: Sometimes considered the longest centipede species
- Giant Desert Centipede: A dweller in the American Southwest
- Tanzanian Blue Leg Centipede: Known for its stunning sapphire-colored legs
- Puerto Rican Giant: Another massive species
- Megarian Banded Centipede: Despite being smaller, it is still grouped with the giants
Each of these centipedes, including our Vietnamese Centipede, has its own unique traits that make it stand out, yet all share the typical characteristics expected of centipedes — rapid movement, aggressiveness, and a venomous bite.
A Deeper Understanding of the Vietnamese Centipede
Contrary to popular belief and their menacing name, centipedes don’t actually possess a hundred legs, much less a thousand. Instead, they generally have a set quantity ranging from 15 to 30 pairs, depending on the species. The interesting part? Each pair of legs is marginally longer than the previous pair as you move from head to tail.
This design allows the Vietnamese Centipede to speed along without the worry of tangled legs disturbing its high-octane sprint. Their speed is so extreme that some larger species have been reported snatching flying bats out of the air!
In conclusion, the Vietnamese Centipede is a tiny, eccentric executioner with formidable speed and an alarming presence. This makes it an excellent addition to the glass-walled homes of invertebrate collectors worldwide.