What's the Difference Between Centipedes and Millipedes?

Millipedes and centipedes are both common pests that can be found in homes across the US.  Both pests are arthropods which mean they are inverebrates – having an external skeleton, a segmented body, and jointed appendages.  Although these pests look similar and are oftentimes confused, they do have some major differences. 

Centipede

•  Centipedes tend to occur in lower numbers than millipedes
• 14 or more segments
• Centipedeshave forcipules (modifications on the first pair of legs that form pincer-like appendages) are found on no other arthropods.
• Considered carnivorous compared to the millipede
• Have 1 pair of legs per body segment

Millipede

For more information on Centipedes and Millipedes, visit our Pest Library!