Differences Between Centipedes and Millipedes

Are centipedes herbivores and millipedes predaceous? (T/F)

True or False: Centipedes are herbivores and millipedes are predaceous.

Answer:

The claim that centipedes are herbivores and millipedes are predatory is incorrect.

Centipedes and millipedes are often confused due to their similar appearance, but they actually have distinct differences in terms of diet and behavior.

Centipedes, belonging to the class Chilopoda, are carnivorous predators. They have one pair of legs per body segment and possess venomous forcipules that they use to inject venom into their prey, which primarily consists of insects such as spiders and cockroaches.

On the other hand, millipedes, classified as diplopods, are typically herbivores or detritivores. They have two pairs of legs per diplosegment and mainly feed on decaying plant matter or organic material found in soil.

Despite the common misconception that millipedes have a thousand legs, they actually have far fewer legs than their name suggests. Their diet and feeding habits differ significantly from those of centipedes, showcasing the diversity of behaviors within the myriapod class.