Giant african millipede

Description:

Giant millipedes have two main modes of defence if they feel threatened: curling into a tight spiral exposing only the hard exoskeleton, and secretion of an irritating liquid from pores on their body. This liquid can be harmful if introduced into the eyes or mouth

Habitat:

is a widespread species in lowland parts of East Africa, from Mozambique to Kenya, but rarely reaches altitudes above 1,000 metres. It lives mostly in forests, but can also be found in areas of coastal habitat which contain at least a few trees. It is known in Zulu as amashongololo. It is also native to Southern Arabia, especially in Dhofar.

Notes:

brought to the library from the phx zoo