Peridontopyge rubescens

The Peridontopyge rubescens belongs to the diplopod family and is a lesser-known but interesting species of millipede. This species is distinguished by its characteristic red to reddish-brown colouring, which has also earned it the suffix “rubescens”, meaning “reddish”.

Millipedes of this species are typically soil-dwelling and prefer moist, well-covered habitats such as those found in wooded areas. They feed mainly on decaying organic material, which makes them important decomposers in their ecosystem. Peridontopyge rubescens plays a crucial role in the decomposition of dead plant material, which contributes to nutrient recycling in the soil.

In terraristics, this species may attract interest due to its striking colouration and interesting foraging and locomotion behaviour. However, keeping such millipedes requires careful mimicry of their natural environment, including maintaining high humidity and providing a layer of foliage and white rotten wood in which they can burrow and hide.