Types of Millipedes in Tennessee: Identification Guide

Types of Millipedes in Tennessee

As one of the most common arthropods in the United States, it doesn’t take much exploration to find a millipede in Tennessee. Millipedes are defined by a cylindrical body of usually greater than 20 segments. While millipedes don’t have one thousand legs as their name might suggest, they do have a lot of them—two sets of legs per segment. 

How can you tell which millipede is in your garden or basement? At U.S. Pest Protection, we have the answers that you need.

American Giant Millipede

The American Giant Millipede (also known as the worm millipede, North American Millipede, or iron worm) is the most common millipede species in Tennessee.

• Size: Up to 4 inches in length
• Color: Dark gray exoskeleton with occasional red, purple, or yellow coloring along the edges
• Defensive Mechanism: Curls into a spiral and secretes chemicals called benzoquinones when threatened
• Health Concerns: These secretions can cause mild skin burns and are particularly irritating if they contact the eyes
• Handling Precaution: Should not be handled without gloves

Apheloria Virginiensis

This distinctive millipede species is notable for its colorful markings and moderate size.

• Size: Up to 2 inches in length
• Color: Dark brown or black exoskeleton with orange-and-red markings that ring each segment
• Distinctive Feature: Yellow legs that contrast with the dark body
• Defensive Mechanism: Secretes a cyanide-based chemical compound when threatened
• Health Concerns: Secretions can be irritating and painful if they contact skin
• Handling Precaution: Direct handling is not recommended

Greenhouse Millipede

This smaller millipede species is commonly found in home gardens and, as its name suggests, greenhouses.

• Size: Less than 1 inch in length
• Color: Dark brown with pale, cream-colored legs and underbelly
• Alternative Names: Garden millipede, hothouse millipede, or short-flange millipede
• Habitat Preference: Often found in cultivated areas and indoor plant environments

Other Millipede Species

While the above three species are most commonly encountered in Tennessee, scientists have identified more than 10,000 different species of millipedes worldwide. General characteristics of millipedes include:

• Movement: Slow-moving compared to centipedes
• Legs: Two pairs of jointed legs on each body segment
• Color Variation: Wide range of colors from gray and brown to red and tan
• Size Range: Varies significantly between species