Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > Garden Pests > Insect relatives: Spiders, millipedes, centipedes, sowbugs, etc. - 1 to 2 inches long > House centipede

House centipede

Scutigera coleoptrata

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Description: 1 inch long.

Where/When: Prefer damp and cool areas, particularly under leaves, plant debris, flower pots, stones etc.

Significance: They feed on insects, spiders, and other arthropods, like sowbugs and millipedes and are beneficial because of their predaceous habits. Bites to humans are rare (if handled carelessly).

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