Scolopendra gigantea

Scolopendra gigantea is a large, venomous centipede native to northern South America and the Caribbean. It is an active predator of invertebrates and small vertebrates.

Forcipules: Modified first trunk limbs in centipedes that deliver venom through sharp, clawlike tips. These venomous appendages seize and subdue the centipede’s prey.
Centipede bite: An injury caused when a centipede’s venomous forcipules pierce skin. Bites from this large species can cause severe local pain and swelling.
Bat predation by Scolopendra gigantea: Reported capture of roosting bats by Scolopendra gigantea in caves. This case shows the centipede exploiting prey resting within reach.
Scolopendra: A genus of large centipedes in the family Scolopendridae. Scolopendra gigantea is one species within this genus.
Centipede venom: A mixture of biologically active compounds produced by centipedes and injected during a bite. Venom helps incapacitate the vertebrates this species can overpower.
Centipede envenomation: The physiological effects that follow venom injection by a centipede. Human exposure raises questions about symptoms, treatment, and venom activity.
Bird predation by centipedes: Predation on birds by centipedes, generally involving nestlings or other vulnerable individuals. Reports of bird prey illustrate attacks on vertebrates beyond mammals and reptiles.
Scolopendridae: A family of large, predatory centipedes in the order Scolopendromorpha. This family includes Scolopendra and other formidable centipedes.
Predation: An ecological interaction in which one organism captures and consumes another. The species’ varied prey illustrate predation across unusually broad size ranges.
Venom research: The study of animal venoms, their biological effects, and their chemical components. Its venom is a source for investigating compounds that affect nerves and muscles.

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