Tanzanian blue ringleg centipede (Scolopendra morsitans)
Invertebrates · Difficulty: Intermediate
Key facts and care guidance for Tanzanian blue ringleg centipede (Scolopendra morsitans) (origin: Pantropical). Adult size around 10–15 cm. Life expectancy 4–7 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.
Short answers
Tanzanian blue ringleg centipede: How big does the enclosure need to be?
30×20×20 cm, escape-proof.
Tanzanian blue ringleg centipede: What temperature does it need?
Daytime 25–30 °C, basking spot No basking spot, at night 20–23 °C.
Tanzanian blue ringleg centipede: Does it need UVB lighting?
UVB: Not required.
Tanzanian blue ringleg centipede: How long do they live?
Life expectancy: 4–7 years.
Tanzanian blue ringleg centipede: Is it suitable for beginners?
Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).
Climate
- Daytime temperature
- 25–30 °C
- Night temperature
- 20–23 °C
- Basking spot
- No basking spot
- Humidity
- 60–75 %
- UVB
- Not required
Enclosure
- Minimum size
- 30×20×20 cm, escape-proof
- Substrate
- Coco humus and sand 8–12 cm, cork bark, leaf litter
Feeding
- Food
- House crickets, roaches
- Feeding interval
- every 7–14 days
Key facts
- Adult size
- 10–15 cm
- Life expectancy
- 4–7 years
- Origin
- Pantropical
- Protection status
- It may be classified as a dangerous animal – a painful bite
- Brumation
- None
- Cohabitation
- Keep strictly singly: solitary and cannibalistic - two animals in one enclosure regularly end up as one. This applies even to animals of equal size and even when both are well fed. For breeding, the male is introduced under observation and separated again immediately.
Notes
A widespread, medium-sized species – a little less aggressive than the large giant centipedes, but just as fast. A good way into keeping centipedes for experienced invertebrate keepers.
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Related species
- Amazonian giant centipede (Scolopendra gigantea) – Intermediate to expert
- Chinese red-headed centipede (Scolopendra subspinipes) – Expert
- Chinese red-headed centipede (Scolopendra mutilans) – Expert
- Indian tiger centipede (Scolopendra hardwickei) – Expert
- Caribbean giant centipede (Scolopendra alternans) – Expert
- Mediterranean banded centipede (Scolopendra cingulata) – Intermediate
- Giant desert centipede (Scolopendra heros) – Expert
- Tiger centipede (Scolopendra polymorpha) – Intermediate
What you need to start
To keep Tanzanian blue ringleg centipede (Scolopendra morsitans) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (30×20×20 cm, escape-proof), substrate (Coco humus and sand 8–12 cm, cork bark, leaf litter), a heat source with a thermostat, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.
The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.
Last updated: 2 November 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scolopendra, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scolopendra_morsitans
All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).