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The "Maui Millipede" (Spirobolellus sp., often identified as Spirobolellus immigrans), or Hawaiian Glow/Striped Millipede, is a tiny, docile dwarf species growing to just about 1 to 1.5 inches long. Famous for glowing bright blue under UV light, it features black-and-white stripes in normal light and makes a popular, low-maintenance pet for small terrariums.
Physical Traits & Behavior
Size: Adults reach roughly 1 to 1.5 inches (2 to 3 cm).
Appearance: Black body with white or light-colored lateral stripes (often called the "skunk stripe" millipede).UV Glow: Fluoresces a vivid blue/neon color under ultraviolet or black light.
Temperament: Very calm and slow-moving; will curl into a loose coil when startled rather than roll into a tight ball.
Defense: May secrete a mild, smelly defensive yellow-orange fluid when heavily stressed. Wash hands after handling.
Care & EnclosureHousing: A small container or mini-terrarium (around 8x8x8 inches or 20x20x20 cm) works well for a colony.
Substrate: A moisture-retaining mix of decaying deciduous hardwood, rotten wood, and leaf mold. Never use toxic softwood like pine.
Humidity: Moderate to high, kept damp but well-ventilated to avoid stagnant wetness.
Diet: Decaying leaves, rotten hardwood, supplementary calcium (like cuttlebone), and occasional scraps of fresh veggies or fish food.
