Serpent island centipede
Scolopendra abnormis, the Serpent Island centipede, is a species of centipede in the family Scolopendridae that is endemic to Mauritius. It only occurs on two outlying islands, Round Island and Serpent Island. On Serpent Island it is very common, reaching densities of 12 adults per square metre in suitable habitat.
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NocturnalNocturnality is an animal behavior characterized by being active during the night and sleeping during the day. The common adjective is "nocturnal",...
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CarnivoreA carnivore meaning 'meat eater' is an organism that derives its energy and nutrient requirements from a diet consisting mainly or exclusively of a...
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TerrestrialTerrestrial animals are animals that live predominantly or entirely on land (e.g., cats, ants, snails), as compared with aquatic animals, which liv...
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OviparousOviparous animals are female animals that lay their eggs, with little or no other embryonic development within the mother. This is the reproductive...
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starts withScolopendra abnormis grow to at least 95 mm (3.7 in) in length, with the specimens from Serpent Island being slightly larger than those from Round Island. Their overall colour is yellowish. They do not show escape reactions when exposed.
Scolopendra abnormis are typically found under rocks or between slabs of volcanic tuff (Round Island), or in loose networks of burrows in humid peat-like soil between slabs of rock (Serpent Island). They are nocturnal carnivores that feed on insects and carcasses. They can inflict a painful bite on humans. Scolopendra abnormis are preyed upon by Serpent Island geckos and Round Island skinks.