Invertebrate · GBIF taxon 1027554
American Giant Millipede
Narceus americanusAlso known as Worm Millipede, Iron Worm, Giant North American Millipede
American giant millipedes play a critical role in eastern forests by breaking down rotting wood and leaf litter into rich topsoil. When threatened, these smooth, dark arthropods tightly coil their body to shield vulnerable legs and underside. They are most active during warm, humid weather when they forage along damp woodland floors.
DetritivoreNocturnalForest Dweller
Licensed reference(c) Judy Gallagher, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Decaying wood, fallen leaves, organic matter
Predators
- Birds
- Toads
- Small Mammals
ThreatsHabitat destruction, deforestation, severe drought
HabitatsDeciduous forests, damp woodlands, decaying logs
Life span2–11 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderSpirobolida
- FamilySpirobolidae
- GenusNarceus
- SpeciesNarceus americanus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Secretes an irritating fluid that stains skin; avoid touching eyes and wash hands after handling.
- Why it is dangerous
- Secretes benzoquinones from specialized lateral glands when threatened, which can cause mild chemical burns and temporary skin discoloration.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Recognizable by its large, cylindrical dark grey or brown body featuring reddish accents along segment edges.
- What to do
- Keep away from eyes and mouth, and wash skin thoroughly with soap and water if handling occurs.
Responsible observation
- Observe in Place: Watch them explore decaying logs without removing them from their shelter.
- Gentle Touch: Allow the millipede to crawl freely across flat, open palms without restraint.
- Wash Hands: Clean hands with soap immediately after contact to prevent minor skin staining.
Related Millipede (c) 101595408250610106310, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by 101595408250610106310 · cc-by
Related Millipede (c) Ereenegee, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Habitat Companion Alex Karasoulos / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
Predator Cephas / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
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