Brown Centipede
Lithobius forficatus
This record describes Lithobius forficatus (species). Recorded family: Lithobiidae. Recorded order: Lithobiomorpha.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Chilopoda
- Order
- Lithobiomorpha (Stone Centipedes)
- Family
- Lithobiidae
- Genus
- Lithobius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In soil and beneath debris. Often in human-modified areas.
Geographic Range
Holarctic. Introduced from Europe, extremely ubiquitous throughout its range.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Small invertebrates, including earthworms, small millipedes, insect larvae, etc.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Lithobius forficatus (Linnaeus 1758)
About Stone Centipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Lithobiomorpha, the group containing Lithobius forficatus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Lithobiomorpha (stone centipedes) includes ~1,500 described species. They are the most common centipedes in temperate regions, frequently found under stones, logs, and leaf litter in gardens.
Ecological role of the group
Stone centipedes are important soil predators that regulate populations of springtails, mites, and other small arthropods. Unlike many centipedes, females guard their eggs until hatching - a form of maternal care.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Stone centipedes are beneficial garden predators that help control pest insects, slugs, and other invertebrates. They are harmless to humans despite their venomous bite capability.
Recorded sources for this group: Myriapod research, soil ecology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Brown Centipede (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ken Wolgemuth; Additional contributions by v belov , marcie oconnor , Joseph DeSisto Alling
Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Centipede
How big is Brown Centipede?
15-30 mm
Where is Brown Centipede found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | In soil and beneath debris. Often in human-modified areas. |
| Range | Holarctic. Introduced from Europe, extremely ubiquitous throughout its range. |
What does Brown Centipede eat?
The diet of the Brown Centipede includes Small invertebrates, including earthworms, small millipedes, insect larvae, etc..