Invertebrate · Centipede
Tiger centipede care guide
Scolopendra polymorpha
The tiger centipede is a advanced-level centipede from SW United States, Mexico. Adults reach Body 10–15 cm and live 5–7 years in captivity. A smaller, more manageable desert Scolopendra; still needs a secure lid.
- Enclosure 30 × 20 × 20 cm
- Temp 22–28°C
- Humidity 40–60% (damp lower layer)
How much does a tiger centipede cost in Canada?
Tiger centipede quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- Body 10–15 cm
- Lifespan
- 5–7 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- SW United States, Mexico
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 22–28°C
- Humidity
- 40–60% (damp lower layer)
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – crickets, roaches
- Bioactive style
- Desert invertebrate
Tiger centipede enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a desert invertebrate bioactive build.
- Soil and sand mix10 cm
Keep it dry with one slightly moistened corner. Desert species are sensitive to stuffy, wet conditions.
Temperature: 22–28°C. Humidity: 40–60% (damp lower layer). 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 tiger centipede eat?
Carnivore – crickets, roaches. Feed 1–2 prey items weekly.
Handling, temperament & health
Fast and defensive with a painful bite; do not handle.
Health watch: Dehydration if the substrate dries out completely.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Visual check.
Weekly
- Feed; remove leftovers.
- Moisten one corner lightly.
Monthly
- Check the soil hasn’t become damp throughout.
Yearly
- Refresh substrate if it smells or compacts.
Recommended for a tiger centipede bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 20 × 20 cm).
Tiger centipede FAQ
Is the tiger centipede good for beginners?
The tiger centipede is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Fast and defensive with a painful bite; do not handle.
What size enclosure does a tiger centipede need?
At least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (about 12 × 8 × 8 inches, roughly 3 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a tiger centipede cost in Canada?
Typically $30–60 CAD to buy, about $110–200 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $20–40 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a tiger centipede need?
Temperature: 22–28°C. Humidity: 40–60% (damp lower layer).
What does a tiger centipede eat?
Carnivore – crickets, roaches. Feed 1–2 prey items weekly.
Similar species
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.