What should I do if I get bitten by a cryptopid centipede?

If you get bitten by a cryptopid centipede, clean the bite area with soap and water to prevent infection. Applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling and pain, and over-the-counter antihistamines or pain relievers can alleviate discomfort. While their venom is not harmful to most people, you should monitor the bite for signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash, and seek medical attention if any of these symptoms occur. In most cases, the bite will heal on its own within a few days.

What is the difference between a cryptopid centipede and a bark centipede?

Cryptopid centipedes and bark centipedes differ mainly in their appearance and habitat. Cryptopid centipedes have elongated, flattened bodies and lack eyes, relying on their long antennae to sense their surroundings. They prefer dark, moist environments like basements or leaf litter. In contrast, bark centipedes are often found in trees or under bark and have a slightly more rounded body with a darker coloration. While both are fast-moving, bark centipedes are more commonly associated with wooded areas, while cryptopids are more likely to invade homes.

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Cryptopid Centipede

How to identify and get rid of cryptopid centipedes

Don’t let cryptopid centipedes crawl into your house!

Have you spotted fast-moving, many-legged critters in your basement or yard? It could be a cryptopid centipede hanging out in or around your home. These fascinating yet creepy creatures are known for their elongated, flat bodies and their impressive speed. They prefer dark, damp areas and can often wander into basements, crawl spaces, or under leaf litter in your yard. While they may look intimidating, cryptopid centipedes are not harmful to humans unless provoked.

Cryptopid centipedes are nocturnal hunters, so that means they chase down other insects at night. Though they can deliver a painful bite, they usually avoid human contact.

How to identify cryptopid centipedes

Cryptopid centipedes are generally identified by their elongated, flattened bodies, which can be pale yellow to reddish-brown. They have numerous pairs of legs, typically between 15 and 21 pairs, giving them a distinctive look as they move quickly across surfaces. Unlike some other centipedes, cryptopids lack eyes and rely on their long antennae to navigate. Since they are nocturnal, you are more likely to see them out in the open at night.

How big are cryptopid centipedes?

Cryptopid centipedes can grow up to 2 inches long, depending on the species.

Where do cryptopid centipedes live?

These centipedes are found throughout the United States, particularly in areas with moist, dark environments, such as forests, gardens, and homes with damp basements. You’re most likely to find cryptopid centipedes in damp areas like basements, crawl spaces, under mulch, or in garden beds with moist soil.

How to get rid of cryptopid centipedes

Keeping cryptopid centipedes out of your home doesn’t have to be too difficult, and with a few strategies, you should be able to manage them in your home or yard. You can do this by:

Reducing moisture: Cryptopid centipedes thrive in moist environments, so reducing humidity in your home or yard can make it less attractive to them. Use dehumidifiers and fix any leaks in your home.
Sealing entry points: Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and holes, particularly around windows, doors, and the foundation, and seal them to prevent centipedes from entering.
Removing organic debris: Clear away leaf litter, mulch, and other organic debris from your yard, which can serve as hiding spots for centipedes.
Improving ventilation: Ensure good airflow in crawl spaces and basements to keep the area dry and less favorable for centipedes.

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Quick facts

Scientific name
Cryptopidae
Other common names
Bark Centipedes

FAQs

If you get bitten by a cryptopid centipede, clean the bite area with soap and water to prevent infection. Applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling and pain, and over-the-counter antihistamines or pain relievers can alleviate discomfort. While their venom is not harmful to most people, you should monitor the bite for signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash, and seek medical attention if any of these symptoms occur. In most cases, the bite will heal on its own within a few days.
Cryptopid centipedes and bark centipedes differ mainly in their appearance and habitat. Cryptopid centipedes have elongated, flattened bodies and lack eyes, relying on their long antennae to sense their surroundings. They prefer dark, moist environments like basements or leaf litter. In contrast, bark centipedes are often found in trees or under bark and have a slightly more rounded body with a darker coloration. While both are fast-moving, bark centipedes are more commonly associated with wooded areas, while cryptopids are more likely to invade homes.

About the authorDr. Grant BoltonPhD, Entomology

Grant specializes in the pest control and AgTech industries, blending scientific expertise with creative storytelling.

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