What is the scientific name of the Galapagos Centipede?

The scientific name of the Galapagos Centipede is Scolopendra galapagoensis.

What are other common names for the Galapagos Centipede?

The Galapagos Centipede is also known as Darwin’s goliath centipede.

Where are Galapagos Centipedes native to?

Galapagos Centipedes are native to Galapagos Islands.

How big do Galapagos Centipedes get?

Adult Galapagos Centipedes typically reach 4-6 inches.

How long do Galapagos Centipedes live?

Galapagos Centipedes live about 5-10 years with proper care.

What temperatures does a Galapagos Centipede need?

Recommended temperatures for a Galapagos Centipede: 70-75°F cool side, 80-85°F warm side, and No basking spot.

What humidity does a Galapagos Centipede need?

Galapagos Centipedes need 70-80% humidity.

Do Galapagos Centipedes need UVB lighting?

UVB lighting is recommended because it benefits Galapagos Centipedes. Lighting spec: UVA/UVB benefits animal.

What size enclosure does a Galapagos Centipede need?

Recommended enclosure sizes for a Galapagos Centipede: Adult: 12”x12”x12” (minimum). Always base adult size enclosure off of adult size and activity level.

What do Galapagos Centipedes eat?

Galapagos Centipedes eat: Carnivores; Insects; Invertebrates.

Are Galapagos Centipedes good for beginners?

Galapagos Centipedes are not usually recommended for beginners; they are rated Advanced for keeper experience.

Are Galapagos Centipedes nocturnal or diurnal?

Galapagos Centipedes are nocturnal (active at night).

What is Galapagos Centipede behavior like?

Common Galapagos Centipede behavior traits: New World; Quick moving; Venomous; Burrowing; Build elaborate tunnel systems; Solitary; Can be defensive: rear up, display their forcipules; May bite if provoked, injecting venom that can cause pain and discomfort; High humidity requirements; Always provide water dish; As they age (& grow) they’re less sporadic in their movements.

Do Galapagos Centipedes lay eggs?

Yes. Galapagos Centipedes are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs.

How many eggs does a Galapagos Centipede lay?

A Galapagos Centipede clutch is typically 50-100 eggs.

What is the best substrate for juvenile Galapagos Centipedes?

Recommended substrates for juvenile Galapagos Centipedes: ReptiEarth Fine Coconut Fiber Mix; Ready to Use.

What is the best enclosure for a Galapagos Centipede?

Recommended enclosures for Galapagos Centipedes by age. Sub-adult: HabiStat 18" Glass Terrariums. Adult: HabiStat 24" Glass Terrariums.

Galapagos Centipede

Common Name(s)	Galapagos centipede Darwin’s goliath centipede
Scientific Name	Scolopendra galapagoensis
Behavior	Nocturnal (active during night) New World Quick moving Venomous Burrowing Build elaborate tunnel systems Solitary Can be defensive: rear up, display their forcipules May bite if provoked, injecting venom that can cause pain and discomfort High humidity requirements Always provide water dish As they age (& grow) they’re less sporadic in their movements
Reproduction	Oviparous (Egg Layer) Clutch size: 50-100
Lifespan	~5-10 years
Temperatures	70-75°F cool side 80-85°F warm side No basking spot
Humidity	70-80%
Lighting	UVA/UVB benefits animal
Size	4-6 inches
Enclosure Recommendations	Adult: 12”x12”x12” (minimum) Always base adult size enclosure off of adult size and activity level.
Experience Level	Advanced *Parents should always be involved caring for any pet, until the child is 18 yrs.
Diet	Carnivores Insects Invertebrates

Filter by age:

Best Substrates for Adult Galapagos Centipedes

ReptiEarth Fine Coconut Fiber Mix; Ready to Use: 36 Quart

Best Enclosures for Adult Galapagos Centipedes

HabiStat 24" Glass Terrariums: 24x18x18, 34 Gallon Terrarium

Best Substrates for Subadult Galapagos Centipedes

ReptiEarth Fine Coconut Fiber Mix; Ready to Use: 12 Quart

Best Enclosures for Subadult Galapagos Centipedes

HabiStat 18" Glass Terrariums: 18x18x18, 25 Gallon Terrarium

The Galapagos Centipede (Scolopendra galapagoensis) is a remarkable species endemic to the Galapagos Islands, known for several intriguing characteristics. First, these centipedes can grow relatively large, with individuals reaching lengths of up to 15 centimeters (6 inches). They are equipped with powerful venomous claws, or forcipules, located near their mouthparts, which they use to immobilize and subdue their prey. Despite their formidable appearance and venomous capabilities, their bites are generally not fatal to humans but can cause pain and discomfort, making them respected predators in their island habitats.

Secondly, Scolopendra galapagoensis displays unique adaptations to the specific microclimates of the Galapagos Islands. Found in various habitats ranging from coastal areas to higher elevations with more vegetation, these centipedes are nocturnal hunters, actively foraging for small insects and invertebrates during the night. During the day, they seek refuge in burrows, crevices, and under leaf litter to avoid predators and regulate their body temperature. Their presence in diverse microhabitats underscores their ecological role as predators that help maintain balance within the island ecosystems. Studying Scolopendra galapagoensis provides valuable insights into the adaptations of species endemic to isolated island environments, highlighting their resilience and evolutionary strategies in response to unique ecological challenges.

Native Range

Galapagos Islands

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Common Galapagos Centipede ReptiChip Questions

: The scientific name of the Galapagos Centipede is Scolopendra galapagoensis.
: The Galapagos Centipede is also known as Darwin’s goliath centipede.
: Galapagos Centipedes are native to Galapagos Islands.
: Adult Galapagos Centipedes typically reach 4-6 inches.
: Galapagos Centipedes live about 5-10 years with proper care.
: Recommended temperatures for a Galapagos Centipede: 70-75°F cool side, 80-85°F warm side, and No basking spot.
: Galapagos Centipedes need 70-80% humidity.
: UVB lighting is recommended because it benefits Galapagos Centipedes. Lighting spec: UVA/UVB benefits animal.
: Recommended enclosure sizes for a Galapagos Centipede: Adult: 12”x12”x12” (minimum). Always base adult size enclosure off of adult size and activity level.
: Galapagos Centipedes eat: Carnivores; Insects; Invertebrates.
: Galapagos Centipedes are not usually recommended for beginners; they are rated Advanced for keeper experience.
: Galapagos Centipedes are nocturnal (active at night).
: Common Galapagos Centipede behavior traits: New World; Quick moving; Venomous; Burrowing; Build elaborate tunnel systems; Solitary; Can be defensive: rear up, display their forcipules; May bite if provoked, injecting venom that can cause pain and discomfort; High humidity requirements; Always provide water dish; As they age (& grow) they’re less sporadic in their movements.
: Yes. Galapagos Centipedes are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs.
: A Galapagos Centipede clutch is typically 50-100 eggs.
: Recommended substrates for juvenile Galapagos Centipedes: ReptiEarth Fine Coconut Fiber Mix; Ready to Use.
: Recommended substrates for sub-adult Galapagos Centipedes: ReptiEarth Fine Coconut Fiber Mix; Ready to Use.
: Recommended substrates for adult Galapagos Centipedes: ReptiEarth Fine Coconut Fiber Mix; Ready to Use.
: Recommended enclosures for Galapagos Centipedes by age. Sub-adult: HabiStat 18" Glass Terrariums. Adult: HabiStat 24" Glass Terrariums.