Pest Control OKC: Identifying Traits Of Arthropods

Although commonly mistaken as insects both millipedes and centipedes are classified as arthropods. These multi-legged critters are also often confused for one another when startled people see one of them crawling around. Today, our pest control OKC team is here to clear things up a bit and hopefully educate readers about the differences between millipedes and centipedes.

Our pest control OKC team will start by giving you some identifying traits about millipedes.

Millipedes vary in shape; most of them being more tubular, like a worm, and others having flatter bodies. Their legs are paired in each body segment, except for the first three. Studies show that millipedes are not actually poisonous, but many species have glands capable of producing irritating toxic fluids that may cause allergic reactions for some people. The spray of some millipedes contains hydrochloric acid which can chemically burn the skin and cause long-term skin discoloration.

Of course, millipedes would much rather stick to their diet of dead plant matter, fungi, and other insects than mess with humans. They also like to live in dark, moist places and they usually try to stay hidden. That’s why, if you find one or more of them, it’s best to just leave them alone.

Millipedes can be any of the following colors: Black, brown, red, ivory, and white.

Next, our pest control OKC team will share a little information about centipedes.

Centipedes have flattened segments with only one pair of legs per segment. Centipedes are known for using their venom to kill their prey. if they feel threatened they can bite humans. The poison produced by centipedes is usually not considered fatal, but it can cause a moderate reaction similar to a bee sting. For those who are allergic to insect venoms and other toxins, more severe reactions may occur. Centipedes are usually found outside, near trees, where they can find their next insect meal.

On occasion, the hunt for insects can bring centipedes looking inside outbuildings, basements, or cellars. as with millipedes, our pest control OKC team would not recommended picking up or touching a centipede!

Centipedes can be any of the following colors: Red, yellow, and orange.

Our pest control OKC team hopes that you are having a safe and happy summer. Should you need any pest control assistance, we’d love to help. You can reach The Bug Guy at 405-973-5522.