Siamese centipede - Benoitolus siamensis

Benoitolus siamensis is a small, slender species of millipede. The animals have a dark gray ground color with pale yellowish margins on the head shield, the posterior portion of the double segments and the anal segment. The antennae and legs are also pale yellow.

This species is suitable for a terrarium 20 x 20 x 30 cm or larger due to its small adult size and climbing urge. However, it is important to note that there is enough space for a substrate filled in high enough. The substrate should be at least 6 cm high and serves as a habitat and food source for the animals. It is also frequented by the animals for molting.

A daytime temperature of 25-28°C has proven to be suitable for keeping this species. The animals are diurnal and therefore offer an interesting observation opportunity. It is important to always place the heat source from above and never from below. The substrate should always be kept semi-moist and a humidity of 70-85% is recommended. The substrate can be additionally covered with leaves, pieces of bark or moss to protect it from drying out.

Benoitolus siamensis is found in Thailand near beaches. There they live on trees and like to stay on branch forks filled with humus and foliage. In these places they also prefer to lay their eggs and the offspring spends its first time there. In the terrarium you can simulate such places and observe if the animals accept them.

This species is also suitable for beginners, because it is very active and survives longer dry periods without damage. A community tank of Benoitolus siamensis and the Cubaris species, also originating from Thailand, is suitable.