Gastrointestinal Parasitism in Giant Millipedes (Roundworms)
The giant millipede (Archispirostreptus gigas) is a diplopod native to Africa and highly valued in the terrarium hobby. Like many invertebrates kept in captivity, it can harbour roundworms (nematodes) in its digestive tract. These parasites...
What is it?
The giant millipede (Archispirostreptus gigas) is a diplopod native to Africa and highly valued in the terrarium hobby. Like many invertebrates kept in captivity, it can harbour roundworms (nematodes) in its digestive tract. These parasites live at the animal's expense and can, when present in large numbers, disrupt its digestive function. Parasitism often remains mild and frequently goes unnoticed until the infestation becomes significant.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
Related signs — each one links to its page:
Signs in millipedes are difficult to observe because this animal displays few visible symptoms. General activity may slow down, food intake may decrease, and progressive weight loss becomes visible as a body that appears less firm or thinner between the segments. Abnormal droppings, which are softer or of unusual consistency, may appear. The millipede may also seem swollen around the abdomen in some cases. In severe infestations, the animal may remain motionless for extended periods and refuse to eat.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Causes and risk factors
Infestation is caused by the presence of nematodes (roundworms) in the diplopod's digestive tract. These parasites can be introduced through contaminated food, substrate soiled with eggs or larvae, or by acquiring an already infected animal. The life cycle of these worms often involves a phase in the environment (soil, substrate) before reinfecting the animal.
A poorly maintained terrarium, substrate that is rarely changed, excessive humidity favouring the survival of nematode eggs or larvae, housing multiple animals in the same enclosure, and introducing a new animal without quarantine all increase the risk of infestation. Failure to regularly clean up leftover food is also a contributing factor.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
Diagnosis in invertebrates remains challenging. A veterinarian specializing in exotic animals can examine the animal's feces under a microscope to look for nematode eggs or larvae. Direct observation of the animal, its behavior, and its weight provide additional clues. Few advanced diagnostic tests exist for this species, so diagnosis often remains presumptive.
Treatment
Treatment, when deemed necessary by the veterinarian, may involve antiparasitic agents adapted for invertebrates, to be used with extreme caution since the safety margin in these animals is poorly understood and some common antiparasitic drugs used in mammals are toxic to diplopods. Improvement of husbandry conditions (hygiene, substrate, diet) systematically accompanies any treatment plan.
Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.
Prevention
Prevention relies on strict terrarium hygiene: regular cleaning, periodic substrate changes, and prompt removal of uneaten food. It is advisable to quarantine any new individual before introducing it with other centipedes. Avoiding overcrowding in the same terrarium also limits transmission. Routine veterinary check-ups with a practitioner experienced in invertebrates allow early detection of infestation before it becomes severe.
Possible complications
Severe untreated infestation can lead to general weakness, severe weight loss, persistent digestive disturbances, and in extreme cases, death from exhaustion or malnutrition.
When to see a veterinarian
The animal has refused food for several days.
The centipede shows visible weight loss or loss of body firmness.
Abnormal stools or diarrhea occur repeatedly.
The animal remains unusually still or lethargic.
Multiple individuals in the same terrarium show similar signs.
Prognosis
The prognosis is generally favorable if infestation is detected early and husbandry conditions are corrected. In cases of severe infestation or delayed management, the prognosis becomes more guarded, as the animal may develop weakness that is difficult to reverse.
Frequently asked questions
Is giant centipede parasitism contagious to other animals or to humans?
These nematodes are specific to invertebrates and do not represent a known risk to humans or common domestic animals. Good hygiene practices are nonetheless recommended.
How can I tell if my millipede has worms without opening it or hurting it?
A veterinarian can analyze a stool sample under a microscope to look for eggs or larvae without needing to handle the animal in an invasive way.
Can I treat my centipede myself with an over-the-counter antiparasitic?
No, this is strongly discouraged. Invertebrates are highly sensitive to many chemical substances, and inappropriate treatment can be fatal. Consult a veterinarian who specializes in this area.
Can a centipede carrying worms continue to live normally?
A light infestation may cause no visible signs for a long time. It is especially in cases of heavy parasite load that symptoms appear.
References
ESCCAP — European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 08 September 2026
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