Do Millipedes Bite? Are millipedes poisonous? Millipedes are among the oldest - and most fascinating - decomposers. They’re found in almost all areas of the world.
Often mistaken for worms, these small arthropods were among the first animals to evolve from water to land habitats.
In fact, one millipede fossil found in Scotland is estimated to be 428 million years old!
Despite their fascinating nature, not everyone is a fan of the millipede.
While these burrowing creatures aren’t poisonous to humans, it’s possible to be allergic to them.
Do Millipedes Bite?
While millipedes defend themselves like other animals, they don’t bite.
Instead, millipedes can coil up into a ball when they feel threatened.
In some instances, they can emit a fluid toxin from their glands to fight against predators such as: spiders, ants, other insects
Some millipedes can spray toxin a couple of feet away if they detect a threat.
Are millipedes poisonous to humans?
The toxin from the millipede’s glands is primarily made up of hydrochloric acid and hydrogen cyanide.
These two substances, respectively, have a burning and asphyxiation effect on the millipede’s predators.
In large quantities, the toxin is harmful to humans, too.
However, the quantity millipedes emit is so small that it can’t poison people.
Aside from predators, humans can also come into contact with this toxin.
For example, if you were to pick up a millipede that has coiled in defense, you might notice a brownish tint to your skin after you put the millipede back down.
You can wash the liquid off your hands, but it still might stain temporarily.
To date, there are over 12,000 known living species of millipedes worldwide.
None of these are documented to be poisonous to humans.
A millipede also won’t bite you, but the toxins of some species can cause skin symptoms when you handle them.
Still, as with handling any animals, it’s important to take extra care.
Allergic or irritant reactions are possible, especially if you come into contact with a millipede that emits toxins from its glands as a natural defense mechanism.
See your doctor if any symptoms of an irritant or allergic reaction don’t clear up with home care.
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