Millipedes and Centipedes
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Millipedes and centipedes can be a nuisance to the home owner. While millipedes do not inflict wounds like centipedes they do release a foul smelling secretion when disturbed, making them both an undesirable addition to the home. In this article, we will review identification, biology and pest control measures for the millipede and centipede.
While they may look similar, there are some basic distinctions between the millipede and centipede. The millipede does not have a ‘thousand’ legs, as one would derive from the name, but they do instead have two ‘pairs’ of legs per body segment. The centipede only has one pair of legs per body segment. In contrast, normally, they do share the same light brown color and have over 30 pairs of legs, and measure approximately an inch in length.
Most millipedes are slow moving, cylindrical and feed mainly on plants, while the centipede is flatter, faster and enjoy snacking on spiders. Both species like to live in damp spaces; basements, under rocks, mulch, and logs. When outdoor conditions are not favorable, you will notice them moving in en masse. Many times, they will die due to a lack of sufficient moisture or food sources, but the house centipede in specific, is well suited to reproduce and set up shop long term in cellars, crawlspaces and bathrooms where their favorite food source, the spider, can be found.
In order to maintain control over these pests in your home, it is best to seal any cracks in your foundation. You can use an all purpose caulk that can shrink or expand with weather conditions. Also consider using weather stripping around doors and entry ways. Be aware of excess moisture in, around and under your home that might be giving these pests favorable conditions to live and breed. Fix leaks, remove excess brush or vegetation, and try a dehumidifier for basements. The most important step you can take is to reduce areas of excess moisture inside of your home.
Sticky glue traps can be placed under sinks or near entry areas to fore warn you of a problem. Use an outdoor insect spray to create a barrier for millipedes and centipedes control. During perimeter spraying, it is important that the area you are spraying is saturated with the insecticide and not light coated. Try spraying in cracks or crevices that they might use an entry point. If you plan on spraying indoors, focus attention on the perimeter walls of basements and crawl spaces that would be most likely to host millipedes or centipedes.
When used together, all of these steps will help you eliminate your millipede and centipede problems! |
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Author Resource:-
In this article, we will review identification, biology and pest control measures for the millipede and centipede. Sticky glue traps can be placed under sinks or near entry areas to fore warn you of a problem. Use an outdoor insect spray to create a barrier for millipedes and centipedes control.
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By :
genny brown
Submitted
2012-01-13 06:47:19 |
Article From Article Mayhem
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