Flame Leg Millipede (Trigoniulus macropygus)

What Do Flame Leg Millipedes Look Like?

The Flame Leg Millipede is easily identifiable by its deep orange, red, and yellow legs.

Its unique yellow legs and antennae provide a contrast to the dark contrast of its body, making it a very attractive species.

Measuring up to 5 cm in length, Trigoniulus macropygus is one of the mid-sized species of millipedes available as a pet.

Like all millipedes, their body consists of many segments, each of which is covered with a protective exoskeleton.

The head of the millipede contains two simple eyes and two antennae with which the millipede can smell and feel its environment.

Along its back, the millipede has 2 to 4 pairs of legs per segment, with an even number of legs overall.

Its main defenses are a pair of pincers at the front of its head and the ability to secrete noxious chemicals to ward off predators.

Benefits Of Using Flame Leg Millipedes

Flame Leg Millipedes add an extra level of color and interest to terrariums and paludariums, making them ideal for hobbyists who want to create beautiful displays.

They actively help to keep substrates clean by consuming decomposing food and dispersing it throughout the enclosure.

This helps to keep the environment healthy and thriving and helps to promote microbial balance.

Additionally, Trigoniulus macropygus helps to aerate the soil, by creating tunnels in the substrate.

Finally, their shy and docile nature makes them great pets for people of all ages and experience levels.

Flame Leg Millipede Facts

The Flame Leg Millipede is a bright, lively species native to the Philippines.

With golden-hued legs and unique coloration, these millipedes are a favorite among exotic pet enthusiasts.

They are not particularly challenging pets, but they must be provided with the right temperature and humidity levels to thrive.

Flame Leg Millipedes are herbivorous and eat a variety of leafy greens and fruits.

Their lifespan is typically 2+ years, and they reproduce quickly under the right conditions.

Habitat

Trigoniulus macropygus is a species of millipede found in tropical forests throughout Southeast Asia and the Philippines.

They live in damp, sheltered areas like rotting logs and under rocks, where they can access the food and water sources that are necessary for their survival.

Their natural habitat is typically warm, humid, and dark and has plenty of decaying vegetation for them to scavenge through.

In the wild, Flame Leg Millipedes are most often seen when the rain washes them out of their hiding spots and exposes them for a brief time.

They can often be seen in large groups, where they form a collective, writhing mass on the forest floor.

Replicate their natural habitat perfectly with our Bioactive Millipede Substrate Blend, designed to provide the ideal moisture and organic content for your millipedes.

Diet

Flame Leg Millipedes feed mostly on decaying plant material, including dead leaves, bark, and other associated organic matter.

In the wild, they often act as nutrient recyclers, breaking down the material that would otherwise remain in the environment.

In addition to a varied diet, Flame Leg Millipedes also benefit from occasional treats of decaying insects and other animal matter.

This can help introduce needed calcium and trace elements into their diet.

Temperament

The Flame Leg Millipede is generally not an aggressive species and can be quite friendly when handled properly.

They have an inquisitive nature towards humans and generally become accustomed to their environment and owners with gentle handling.

While they will not normally bite or sting, they can produce a defensive liquid that should be handled with caution as it can irritate when it comes in contact with skin or eyes.

Due to their mellow nature, they can make good companions to other animals of similar sizes.  

Lifespan

Trigoniulus macropygus has a life expectancy of about two years. As juveniles, they are quite small measuring only about 1.5–2 cm in length.

They grow very slowly and typically reach their full adult length of 5 cm after their first molt.

Although they grow slowly, they molt more frequently than other species of millipedes, shedding their exoskeleton up to 8 times a year.

Millipedes have an interesting life cycle. Females lay their eggs in the soil, and in 3-4 weeks, the eggs hatch.

The millipedes develop in 5-6 stages, each time shedding their skin (molting) and growing larger until they reach adulthood.

These stages last a few weeks each and are triggered by environmental factors such as temperature and humidity.

Breeding

Flame Leg Millipedes can require quite a bit of care when it comes to mating and reproduction.

These millipedes typically reproduce during the fall, winter, and spring seasons.

Before reproduction takes place, the millipedes must be well-fed and in the proper environment.

After mating, the female will lay her eggs in the soil, which will take about two to three weeks to hatch.

Once the eggs hatch, the young millipedes must be given plenty of food, moisture, and a warm environment to thrive.

Where To Find Flame Leg Millipedes

If you are interested in finding Flame Leg Millipedes in the wild, be sure to do your research first on the environment and climate of the area.

Trigoniulus macropygus prefers moist, semi-shaded forests and mountainous environments.

In some countries, it is illegal to take these millipedes out of their natural environment- so be sure to stay on the right side of the law!

Flame Leg Millipedes can be found for sale in many pet stores and online retailers around the world.

Be sure to do your research on the seller before you purchase, to guarantee the health and safety of your new pet.

Finding a seller who has experience in caring for millipedes is essential if you’re looking for success as a millipede keeper!