Centipedes do not thrive in the cold, as their survival and activity are entirely dependent on external temperatures. These segmented arthropods are predators and ectotherms, meaning they cannot generate their own internal heat. Their body temperature fluctuates with the environment, directly tying their ability to move, hunt, and digest to the temperature of their surroundings.
Temperature Preference and Activity
Centipedes are naturally optimized for performance in moderate to warm, humid environments, where their body chemistry functions most efficiently. Some species of centipedes maintain performance over a broad range of temperatures, but their thermal optimum is often far higher than the average temperature of their habitat. This suggests they can move and function well, but their peak physiological output requires warmer conditions.
As air and soil temperatures begin to drop, the centipede’s metabolism slows significantly in a process called thermal depression. This reduction in metabolic rate conserves energy but also decreases movement and hunting activity. Below a certain temperature threshold, the centipede will enter a state of torpor or inactivity to wait for warmer conditions. The species Lithobius forficatus shows a wide temperature tolerance, functioning across a \(0^{\circ}\text{C}\) to \(32^{\circ}\text{C}\) range, and remains active even near \(0^{\circ}\text{C}\).
Overwintering Mechanisms
Centipedes employ a range of strategies to survive the deep cold, which primarily revolve around finding stable microclimates and making physiological adjustments. Their first line of defense is behavioral shelter-seeking, where they migrate to areas that offer thermal buffering. This often means seeking refuge deep within the soil, beneath the frost line, or inside decaying logs and dense leaf litter layers, which act as natural insulation.
To cope with cold temperatures, many centipede species utilize physiological adaptations to prevent lethal freezing. One strategy is metabolic suppression, or diapause, a state of dormancy that allows the centipede to survive extended periods without food. Some species, such as Geophilus flavus, accumulate reserve materials in their fat body for long-term sustenance during this hibernation state.
Another defense involves the production of cryoprotectants, which are biological “antifreeze” compounds like glycerol, trehalose, or other polyols and sugars. These compounds accumulate in the centipede’s body fluids, lowering the freezing point of the water inside their cells. This mechanism helps prevent the formation of destructive ice crystals. This biochemical preparation is a necessary defense against freezing, although the exact cryoprotectant profile varies by species.
Why Centipedes Enter Structures
Centipedes do not seek out human dwellings because they prefer the environment inside, but rather because they are searching for stability when outside conditions become volatile. Structures like basements, crawl spaces, and garages provide a consistent, moderate temperature and high humidity that mimics their preferred overwintering microclimates. The solid foundation and earth surrounding a home are less susceptible to rapid temperature swings than surface soil and leaf litter.
When outdoor temperatures fluctuate or fall to cold levels, the centipede’s survival instinct drives it to seek this thermal refuge. The migration indoors is a necessity for survival, not a preference for human habitation. Once inside, the centipede often gravitates toward dark, damp areas like floor drains or under sinks, which offer a steady supply of moisture.