The British Millipede
Fast Facts
Latin name: Anthogona britannica
Conservation Status: Not Evaluated
Where in the UK: Only known from South Devon.
The British Millipede (Anthogona britannica) is very small and pale brown in colour. They have distinctively dark ommatidia, which make up their eyes. They are native to the UK. In fact, they are the only known endemic British millipede. In 2023 it was rediscovered after 30 years of no sightings.
The British Millipede has been recorded living in a variety of habitats. This includes: damp conditions in the leaf litter near a stream within an ancient woodland, on a well-vegetated shingle bank, and under a stone two metres up a cliff on a grassy ledge.
- Size: 7 mm.
- Life span: Unknown.
- Diet: Unknown but likely feeds on decaying vegetation.
- Reproduction: Unknown.
- When to see: All year. Potentially most active in the Autumn based on previous records.
- Population Trend: Unknown.
- Threats: Commercial development. Recreational Activities.
- Interesting Fact: The only known endemic British millipede.
How can I help?
This species’ conservation is supported by Buglife’s South West Species Recovery Project. This project aims to learn more about the British Millipede and work towards ensuring the continued survival of this endemic species.
You can support our work by joining our community.
Or keep a lookout for The British Millipede and share your finds – download the iRecord app and get recording!
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