Quick answer
Centipedes (Chilopoda) are invertebrates found across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania. The fast, venomous predator with many legs. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.01 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of Fast; some sprint to escape and hunt, and live 1–6 years (varies by species). They feed on carnivore (insects, spiders, small animals) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Soil, leaf litter, and damp places on every continent except Antarctica.
Key takeaway
Centipedes (Chilopoda) are invertebrates found across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania. The fast, venomous predator with many legs. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.01 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of Fast; some sprint to escape and hunt, and live 1–6 years (varies by species). They feed on carnivore (insects, spiders, small animals) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Soil, leaf litter, and damp places on every continent except Antarctica.
Centipede overview
Centipede (Chilopoda) is a invertebrate listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight about 0.01 kg; lifespan around 1–6 years (varies by species).
Centipede ecology
Diet: Carnivore (insects, spiders, small animals). Habitat: Soil, leaf litter, and damp places worldwide. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Centipedes and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild centipedes are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Centipede profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Centipedes inhabit Soil, leaf litter, and damp places on every continent except Antarctica. Their preferred habitat includes soil, leaf litter, and damp places worldwide, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across Africa, Asia, Europe, No
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult centipedes typically measure about 0.15 m in length and weigh roughly 0.01 kg (0 lb). They can sprint at Fast; some sprint to escape and hunt when hunting or escaping predators. Centipedes are known for the fast, venomous predator with many legs — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Centipede FAQs
What are key facts about centipedes?
Centipedes (Chilopoda) are invertebrates found across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania. The fast, venomous predator with many legs. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.01 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of Fast; some sprint to escape and hunt, and live 1–6 years (varies by species). They feed on carnivore (insects, spiders, small animals) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Soil, leaf litter, and damp places on every continent except Antarctica.
What is the scientific name of the centipede?
Chilopoda — used in research and conservation listings for centipedes.
What do centipedes eat?
Centipedes eat insects, spiders and small animals, with seasonal and regional variation in Soil, leaf litter, and damp places worldwide.
Where do centipedes live?
They are associated with Soil, leaf litter, and damp places worldwide. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of centipedes?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.