What is the scientific name of the Giant Vietnamese Centipede?

The scientific name of the Giant Vietnamese Centipede is Scolopendra dehaani.

What are other common names for the Giant Vietnamese Centipede?

The Giant Vietnamese Centipede is also known as Vietnam giant centipede.

Where are Giant Vietnamese Centipedes native to?

Giant Vietnamese Centipedes are native to Southeast Asia, India, Japan, Hong Kong, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

How big do Giant Vietnamese Centipedes get?

Adult Giant Vietnamese Centipedes typically reach 8-10+ inches.

How long do Giant Vietnamese Centipedes live?

Giant Vietnamese Centipedes live about 5-10 years with proper care.

What temperatures does a Giant Vietnamese Centipede need?

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

What humidity does a Giant Vietnamese Centipede need?

Giant Vietnamese Centipedes need 75-85% humidity.

Do Giant Vietnamese Centipedes need UVB lighting?

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

What size enclosure does a Giant Vietnamese Centipede need?

Recommended enclosure sizes for a Giant Vietnamese Centipede: Adult: 24”x18”x12”. Always base adult size enclosure off of adult size and activity level.

What do Giant Vietnamese Centipedes eat?

Giant Vietnamese Centipedes eat: Carnivores; Insects; Invertebrates.

Are Giant Vietnamese Centipedes good for beginners?

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

Are Giant Vietnamese Centipedes nocturnal or diurnal?

Giant Vietnamese Centipedes are nocturnal (active at night).

What is Giant Vietnamese Centipede behavior like?

Common Giant Vietnamese Centipede behavior traits: Old 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 Giant Vietnamese Centipedes lay eggs?

Yes. Giant Vietnamese Centipedes are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs.

How many eggs does a Giant Vietnamese Centipede lay?

A Giant Vietnamese Centipede clutch is typically 25-200+ eggs.

What is the best substrate for juvenile Giant Vietnamese Centipedes?

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

What is the best enclosure for a Giant Vietnamese Centipede?

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

Giant Vietnamese Centipede

Common Name(s)	Giant Vietnamese centipede Vietnam giant centipede
Scientific Name	Scolopendra dehaani
Behavior	Nocturnal (active during night) Old 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: 25-200+
Lifespan	~5-10 years
Temperatures	70-75°F cool side 80-85°F warm side No basking spot
Humidity	75-85%
Lighting	UVA/UVB benefits animal
Size	8-10+ inches
Enclosure Recommendations	Adult: 24”x18”x12” 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 Giant Vietnamese Centipedes

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

Best Enclosures for Adult Giant Vietnamese Centipedes

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

Best Substrates for Subadult Giant Vietnamese Centipedes

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

Best Enclosures for Subadult Giant Vietnamese Centipedes

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

The Giant Vietnamese Centipede (Scolopendra dehaani) is indeed an impressive species known for its size and predatory behavior. Growing up to 20 to 25 cm (8 to 10 inches) in length, it ranks among the largest centipedes in its genus, making it a formidable predator in its natural habitat. Due to its size and aggressiveness, it is not recommended for beginners in centipede handling.

These centipedes are known for their ferocity and hunting prowess. There have been documented instances of them attacking and feeding on small vertebrates, including juvenile snakes, highlighting their predatory nature. Their venomous bite, while not usually life-threatening, can cause significant pain and discomfort to humans. This, combined with their size and defensive behavior, underscores the importance of caution and experience when handling or keeping them in captivity. Understanding their natural behaviors and providing a suitable environment are crucial for their well-being in captivity.

Native Range

Southeast Asia

India

Japan

Hong Kong

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Why ReptiChip?

ReptiChip is made by giant vietnamese centipede lovers, for giant vietnamese centipede lovers. It’s what the pros use, and it’s what you can use, too.

Our product line includes BabiChip, RediChip, TropicalBase, MicroChip, and ReptiEarth, so you can be sure to find the perfect giant vietnamese centipede bedding for your pet.

Ready to switch to the ultimate giant vietnamese centipede bedding? Check out ReptiChip today.

Common Giant Vietnamese Centipede ReptiChip Questions

: The scientific name of the Giant Vietnamese Centipede is Scolopendra dehaani.
: The Giant Vietnamese Centipede is also known as Vietnam giant centipede.
: Giant Vietnamese Centipedes are native to Southeast Asia, India, Japan, Hong Kong, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
: Adult Giant Vietnamese Centipedes typically reach 8-10+ inches.
: Giant Vietnamese Centipedes live about 5-10 years with proper care.
: Recommended temperatures for a Giant Vietnamese Centipede: 70-75°F cool side, 80-85°F warm side, and No basking spot.
: Giant Vietnamese Centipedes need 75-85% humidity.
: UVB lighting is recommended because it benefits Giant Vietnamese Centipedes. Lighting spec: UVA/UVB benefits animal.
: Recommended enclosure sizes for a Giant Vietnamese Centipede: Adult: 24”x18”x12”. Always base adult size enclosure off of adult size and activity level.
: Giant Vietnamese Centipedes eat: Carnivores; Insects; Invertebrates.
: Giant Vietnamese Centipedes are not usually recommended for beginners; they are rated Advanced for keeper experience.
: Giant Vietnamese Centipedes are nocturnal (active at night).
: Common Giant Vietnamese Centipede behavior traits: Old 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. Giant Vietnamese Centipedes are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs.
: A Giant Vietnamese Centipede clutch is typically 25-200+ eggs.
: Recommended substrates for juvenile Giant Vietnamese Centipedes: ReptiEarth Fine Coconut Fiber Mix; Ready to Use.
: Recommended substrates for sub-adult Giant Vietnamese Centipedes: ReptiEarth Fine Coconut Fiber Mix; Ready to Use.
: Recommended substrates for adult Giant Vietnamese Centipedes: ReptiEarth Fine Coconut Fiber Mix; Ready to Use.
: Recommended enclosures for Giant Vietnamese Centipedes by age. Sub-adult: HabiStat 18" Glass Terrariums. Adult: HabiStat 24" Glass Terrariums.