Keep Tonkinbolus dollfusi

Tonkinbolus dollfusi is a colorful but often reclusive millipede. This species is best suited for keepers who already have experience with appropriate substrate and maintaining consistent humidity. The animal does not need to come to the surface to thrive.

Tonkinbolus dollfusi at a Glance

Size	up to about 11 cm
Temperature	About 24 °C; a range of 22–27 °C serves as a guideline
Substrate	Deep, edible substrate containing decomposed leaves and white-rot-infected hardwood
Humidity	Slightly moist, well-aerated, and free of waterlogging
Keeping	Quiet places to retreat and space to dig

The animals come from Southeast Asia; the report so far mentions Thailand and Vietnam. They regularly burrow into the ground. During molting, they remain underground and require a great deal of rest.

Keeping Tonkinbolus dollfusi: Terrarium and Substrate

Allow for about 15–20 cm of substrate; for large animals, the usable layer should be as close as possible to their body length. The enclosure needs enough space above the substrate to provide safe climbing opportunities. Determine the enclosure’s size based on the size and number of the animals.

The substrate serves as both a habitat and a primary food source. Decayed leaves and soft, white-rotted hardwood should therefore be included in the mixture. Pure coconut fiber does not fulfill this purpose. Ready-made millipede substrate is convenient if you don’t want to put together the appropriate ingredients yourself.

Climate and Molting

Keep the lower layers of the substrate slightly moist, but not wet. A slightly drier area gives the animals a choice. Check the substrate carefully at the edges instead of digging up the entire terrarium. Adequate ventilation prevents stuffy, constantly wet conditions.

Check the temperature in the set-up terrarium. If your room is too cold, consider placing a regulated heat source on the side. A heater under the substrate can dry out the hiding area. Direct sunlight is not suitable. Do not dig up buried animals to check on them—they may be in the middle of shedding their skin.

Food for Tonkinbolus dollfusi

Regularly add fallen leaves and decaying wood. You can also offer small pieces of suitable, unsprayed vegetables. If they aren’t eaten, remove them promptly. Fruit and vegetables are not a substitute for edible substrate.

Keep the animals in their own group whenever possible. Isopods are not necessary for cleaning and may harass animals that have just molted. You can maintain cleanliness primarily by providing small, supplemental food portions and removing spoiled leftovers.

Offspring and Daily Care

You can’t predict exactly when new offspring will appear. Young animals initially remain hidden in the substrate. Therefore, when refreshing the substrate, do not remove all of the old substrate, provided it is still suitable and not contaminated to the point of causing problems.

It’s better to observe the animals rather than handle them frequently. If disturbed, millipedes may release a defensive secretion. Wash your hands after working in the terrarium and avoid contact with your eyes and mucous membranes. Also, check regularly to make sure the branches and lid are secure.

Discover More Millipedes

Here you’ll find a selection from our store. Compare the specific needs of each species with your existing terrarium.

Still unsure? Feel free to ask us your question in the comments section below the article.