Amazonian giant centipede (Scolopendra gigantea)
Photo: Katka Nemčoková / CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Invertebrate · Centipede

Amazonian giant centipede care guide

Scolopendra gigantea

ExpertMedically significant venom

The amazonian giant centipede is a expert-level centipede from Northern South America, Trinidad. Adults reach Body 25–30 cm and live 10 years in captivity. For experienced keepers only; use a locking enclosure and long tongs.

  • Enclosure 60 × 45 × 30 cm
  • Temp 24–28°C
  • Humidity 70–80%

How much does a amazonian giant centipede cost in Canada?

Animal$200–600Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$230–400Enclosure $50–100 · equipment $60–150 · bioactive supplies ≈ $120
Yearly upkeep$30–60Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$460–1060All prices CAD, estimates

Amazonian giant centipede quick facts

Skill level
Expert
Adult size
Body 25–30 cm
Lifespan
10 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
Northern South America, Trinidad
Minimum enclosure
60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 in, ≈ 21 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
24–28°C
Humidity
70–80%
UVB
Not needed
Diet
Carnivore – roaches, crickets, pinky mice occasionally
Bioactive style
Tropical invertebrate

Amazonian giant centipede enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a tropical invertebrate bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Tarantula Mix12 cm

Keep the soil evenly moist and dig-friendly; a cork slab pressed onto the soil gives a ready-made scrape.

Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 70–80%. UVB: Not needed.

Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.

What does a amazonian giant centipede eat?

Carnivore – roaches, crickets, pinky mice occasionally. Feed 1–2 large insects weekly.

Handling, temperament & health

Large, fast and highly venomous; strictly hands-off.

Health watch: Dehydration and escapes are the main risks.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Visual check.

Weekly

  • Feed; remove leftovers.
  • Mist one side and keep the water dish full.

Monthly

  • Top up leaf litter.

Yearly

  • Refresh the top soil if it compacts.

Recommended for a amazonian giant centipede bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 30 cm).

Amazonian giant centipede FAQ

Is the amazonian giant centipede good for beginners?

No – the amazonian giant centipede is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Large, fast and highly venomous; strictly hands-off.

What size enclosure does a amazonian giant centipede need?

At least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (about 24 × 18 × 12 inches, roughly 21 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a amazonian giant centipede cost in Canada?

Typically $200–600 CAD to buy, about $230–400 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $30–60 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a amazonian giant centipede need?

Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 70–80%.

What does a amazonian giant centipede eat?

Carnivore – roaches, crickets, pinky mice occasionally. Feed 1–2 large insects weekly.

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This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.