Two sets of legs are found on each segment.he many species vary widely in length, and some varieties can reach two to three inches in size. Since millipedes actually eat decaying matter, they are not a plant pest, and are actually helpful to the soil. Under ideal conditions they may develop annoying swarms, however. Millipedes have a unique defense mechanism. They wind up into a coil, and emit repugnant fluids and odors. Some can even emit small amounts of toxic cyanide fumes.

MILLIPEDES

Centipedes vary greatly in length, from 1/4th to 6 inches. The House centipede is 1-1½ inches in length, with 15 pairs of long legs. They prefer areas high in moisture, and are most active at night. Some species can inflict a painful bite, injecting venom from the claws. Usually considered a beneficial insect, but can invade homes seeking out its prey.
1.Antenna- 14 segmented or more
2.Eyes- numerous ocelli
3.Head- slightly larger than body
4.Legs- 1 pair per segment
5.Wings- none
6.Thorax- elongated, flatten, wormlike
7.Petiole- none
8.Abdomen- segmented, forceps at end
9.Color- reddish brown
10.Other

Life Cycle

The female lays between 20 and 300 eggs. Larvae hatch from the eggs, and go through several larval instars where they keep increasing their number of legs and/or segments. After they reach the full number, they go through four more adolescent stages to reach maturity, which may take a couple of years. Overall, they may live for 5-6 years or more.