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Mombasa train millipede
The Mombasa train millipede is a large and colourful millipede native to East Africa, where it lives among leaf litter in forest edges and savanna habitats. Named for its bold appearance and smooth, train‑like movement, this species is easily recognised by its glossy black body adorned with vivid red and yellow longitudinal stripes.
You can find our millipedes downstairs in the Tropical House.
Class:
Diplopoda
Order:
Spirobolida
Family:
Pachybolidae
About the Mombasa train millipede
These millipedes are detritivores, feeding on decaying plant matter, fallen leaves, and other organic debris on the forest floor. By breaking down this material, they play an important ecological role in nutrient cycling and soil health. Their slow, steady movement and ability to curl tightly into a defensive coil help protect them from predators.
Mombasa train millipedes are often found in loose aggregations, especially in moist areas where food is plentiful. Females lay eggs in the soil, and the young undergo several moults, gradually developing the full number of body segments and stripes as they mature.
Conservation
The species is listed as Least Concern, but some populations in East Africa are affected by local habitat loss and collection for the pet trade. Deforestation, burning, and land conversion reduce the leaf‑litter environments these millipedes rely on. Conservation actions include promoting captive breeding to reduce collection pressure and supporting habitat protection in key forest and savanna areas.