Centipedes are arthropods characterized by an elongated, segmented body and a pair of legs on most segments. They possess modified front legs, called forcipules, which act as venomous fangs to capture prey and defend themselves. The answer to whether these creatures are native to the Hawaiian Islands is complicated. The large, prominent species most people encounter are introduced species that have successfully colonized the islands.
The Status of Hawaiian Centipedes
The centipede species causing the most public concern is the Giant Hawaiian Centipede, Scolopendra subspinipes. This large scolopendrid is an invasive species, likely introduced accidentally through human activity. Its presence was documented as early as 1847, suggesting it may have arrived centuries ago via shipping, military transport, or with early Polynesian voyagers.
Hawaii hosts other, much smaller centipede species, such as those belonging to the genera Lithobius and Mecistocephalus, which are typically harmless to humans. However, public experience is dominated by the introduced Scolopendra, which thrives because the tropical climate closely mimics its native habitat.
Identifying the Key Species
The primary centipede of concern in Hawaii is Scolopendra subspinipes, often called the Giant Centipede or Jungle Centipede. This arthropod commonly measures up to 20 centimeters (about 8 inches). Its body is long and flattened, consisting of 21 segments, each bearing a single pair of legs.
Coloration varies significantly, but the species often displays a dark green or olive body, a brown or reddish head, and yellowish-orange legs. The forcipules (venom-injecting claws) are located beneath the head and are not easily visible. Smaller centipedes, such as Lithobius species, are only about 1.5 to 5 centimeters long (about 2 inches) and pose no threat.
Centipede Encounters and Risk Assessment
Centipedes are nocturnal predators, most active at night when hunting insects, spiders, and small vertebrates. During the day, they seek dark, moist environments for shelter under rocks, logs, leaf litter, or mulch. Encounters frequently occur when centipedes wander into homes, sometimes finding their way into shoes, clothing, or bedding.
A bite from Scolopendra subspinipes delivers a venom that typically results in immediate and intense localized pain, swelling (edema), and redness (erythema) at the site. The pain is often described as severe and can persist for several hours to a few days, though symptoms resolve spontaneously within a week. Bites are rarely life-threatening to healthy adults, with complications usually limited to a low risk of secondary infection or, very rarely, a systemic allergic reaction like anaphylaxis. Management is supportive, focusing on pain control and wound care.