Centipedes are common invertebrates often found in homes and gardens. Some appear pale or “white,” prompting questions about their danger. This article clarifies what these centipedes might be and their potential threat to humans.
Understanding “White Centipedes”
The term “white centipede” is not a scientific classification but rather a general description used by people observing these creatures. Centipedes can appear pale or whitish for several reasons, often related to their life cycle or habitat. For instance, a recently molted centipede will temporarily have a soft, lighter body before its new cuticle hardens and darkens.
Some centipede species are naturally lighter in coloration, particularly those that live in dark, subterranean environments where pigmentation offers little advantage. An example is the common house centipede, Scutigera coleoptrata, which often appears pale yellowish-gray or tan rather than truly white. These centipedes are characterized by their elongated, segmented bodies, with each segment typically bearing one pair of legs, distinguishing them from millipedes which have two pairs of legs per segment.
Additionally, certain soil-dwelling centipedes, belonging to orders like Geophilomorpha, are adapted to life underground and tend to be very light-colored, sometimes appearing translucent or off-white. These species are typically found in moist soil, under rocks, or within decaying wood. Observing a “white” centipede usually indicates one of these common situations, not a distinct or rare species.
Assessing the Danger
Most centipedes, including those that appear “white,” possess venom, which they primarily use to subdue their insect prey. While their venom is effective against small invertebrates, it is generally not life-threatening to humans. A centipede bites when threatened, delivering venom through specialized appendages called forcipules located behind its head.
The symptoms of a centipede bite are usually localized and mild, often comparable to a bee or wasp sting. Common reactions include immediate pain, mild swelling, redness, and sometimes a tingling or numb feeling around the bite area. These symptoms typically resolve within a few hours to a few days without specific medical intervention.
In rare instances, more severe reactions can occur, particularly in individuals who are allergic to insect stings. These reactions might include widespread swelling, hives, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, necessitating immediate medical attention. Small children, pets, and individuals with compromised immune systems or allergies may also experience a more pronounced reaction, though severe outcomes remain uncommon.
What to Do and Prevention
If bitten by a centipede, immediate first aid involves cleaning the wound thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used to manage discomfort, and antihistamines may help alleviate itching or minor allergic reactions.
Professional medical attention should be sought if the pain is severe and persistent, if there are signs of infection such as increased redness, pus, or fever, or if the individual experiences a severe allergic reaction like difficulty breathing or widespread rash. Bites on very young children or individuals with known allergies should also prompt a medical consultation. When encountering a centipede indoors, safely remove it without direct contact, perhaps using a broom and dustpan to sweep it outside.
Preventing centipede encounters primarily involves reducing their access to and appeal within living spaces. Centipedes prefer moist environments, so reducing humidity indoors by using dehumidifiers or improving ventilation can be effective. Sealing cracks and crevices in foundations, around windows, and under doors helps block entry points. Removing clutter, such as leaf litter, logs, and stones from around the home’s perimeter, also eliminates potential hiding spots and breeding grounds for centipedes and their prey.