Bacterial Skin Infection in Giant Millipedes
Bacterial skin infection is an infection of the exoskeleton of the giant millipede (Archispirostreptus gigas) caused by opportunistic bacteria that take advantage of an injury or weakening of the animal to develop. In this invertebrate, the...
What is it?
Bacterial skin infection is an infection of the exoskeleton of the giant millipede (Archispirostreptus gigas) caused by opportunistic bacteria that take advantage of an injury or weakening of the animal to develop. In this invertebrate, the "skin" is actually a rigid cuticle that protects the body segment by segment. When it is damaged, bacteria naturally present in the substrate or environment can establish themselves and cause a localized infection, sometimes spreading to several body rings. This condition is well known to breeders and terrarium keepers because it frequently affects millipedes kept in captivity, particularly when hygiene or humidity conditions are not suitable.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
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The first signs are often subtle: an area of the cuticle that changes color, becoming darker, blackish or brownish, sometimes with a softened or weeping appearance. An unusual smell, sometimes foul-smelling, may be noticed at the affected area. The animal becomes less active, remains still longer than usual, and may refuse food. In advanced cases, the lesion can spread to several segments, cause local swelling, or even body deformation or difficulty moving normally. Without treatment, the infection can reach internal tissues and become fatal.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Causes and risk factors
The infection is caused by opportunistic bacteria, often species naturally present in the substrate (soil, peat, bark) or terrarium environment. These bacteria take advantage of a break in the cuticle, caused by an injury (rough handling, a fall, aggression by a conspecific) or by an incomplete molt, to penetrate and multiply locally.
A terrarium that is too humid, poorly ventilated, or unclean promotes bacterial growth. A substrate soiled by feces or decomposing food increases the risk. Frequent or clumsy handling that damages the cuticle is a common triggering factor. A difficult or incomplete molt leaves the new cuticle fragile and more vulnerable. A stressed, weakened, or already ill animal is more susceptible to this type of infection.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
Diagnosis relies primarily on careful observation of the cuticle by a professional experienced with invertebrates, ideally a veterinarian specializing in exotic animals. The veterinarian assesses the appearance, extent, and location of the lesion as well as the animal's overall behavior. Additional examinations, such as a sample from the affected area, may be recommended to identify the specific type of bacterium involved, although this remains uncommon in routine practice for this species.
Treatment
Management first focuses on sanitizing the animal's environment: complete enclosure cleaning, humidity adjustment, and removal of any soiled materials. Local cleaning of the lesion can be performed using antiseptic products suitable for invertebrates, following veterinary guidance. In some cases, local or systemic antibiotic treatment may be considered by the veterinarian, taking into account the specific physiology of myriapods. No treatment should be applied without professional advice, as many products used in mammals are toxic to invertebrates.
Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.
Prevention
Keep the substrate clean and change it regularly, maintaining humidity levels appropriate for the species—neither too dry nor waterlogged. Avoid unnecessary or frequent handling, and always handle the animal gently. Remove leftover food and droppings from the enclosure promptly. Monitor molting periods and ensure the animal has a calm, suitable space to shed without stress. Isolate any new individual before introducing it into a shared enclosure to prevent bacterial transmission between animals.
Possible complications
If the infection is not treated, it can spread to multiple body segments and reach internal structures. This may result in loss of mobility, feeding difficulties, and in severe cases, death of the animal.
When to see a veterinarian
Appearance of a discolored, darkened, or weeping area on the cuticle.
Unusual odor coming from the animal's body.
Marked decrease in activity or refusal to eat.
Swelling, deformation, or difficulty moving.
Lesion spreading or showing no signs of improvement.
Prognosis
The prognosis is favorable if the infection is detected early and husbandry conditions are corrected promptly. Conversely, an advanced or neglected infection may progress to a generalized condition, with a much more guarded prognosis.
Frequently asked questions
Can a giant centipede heal on its own from a skin infection?
A very superficial lesion can sometimes heal on its own if hygiene conditions are corrected, but it is risky to rely on spontaneous healing. Veterinary advice remains preferable as soon as any suspicious signs appear.
Can the infection be transmitted to other centipedes in the same terrarium?
Yes, the bacteria responsible can spread through shared substrate or contact between individuals. It is recommended to isolate the affected animal during its treatment.
Is this disease dangerous for humans?
No, this is not a known zoonotic disease. The risk concerns only the health of the centipede.
Can molting help eliminate infection?
A successful molt can sometimes allow the animal to replace the affected part of the cuticle, but if the infection is already deep, molting alone is generally not sufficient to resolve it.
References
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 08 September 2026
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