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Orthomorpha subkarschi
(Golovatch, 1998)
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Diplopoda
Order: Polydesmida
Family: Paradoxosomatidae
Genus: Orthomorpha
Orthomorpha subkarschi is a species endemic to southern Thailand, it is observed in the provinces of Phuket, Chumphon, Ranong and Surat Thani at altitudes below 200 meters, mainly in tropical rainforests.
Male specimens measure between 33 and 42 mm, while females can reach up to 51 mm in length. They have a blackish-brown coloration with yellow toothed growths on the segments that contrast with the rest of the body. Males have specific reproductive organs that distinguish them from other closely related species.
Special features:
Easy to breed
- Beware of escapes as this species can climb windows and smooth surfaces
- A gregarious species, it often lives in groups.
- Please note that the environment must always be humid.
- Some subspecies of Orthomorpha can secrete hydrogen cyanide, this does not seem to be the case for subkarschi , however you should avoid handling them and wash your hands well after handling.
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01. Breeding
It is possible to keep a group of 10 Desmoxytes planata in a terrarium of 20x20x20 (LxWxH) minimum. This terrarium can be made of glass or plastic. It must be poorly ventilated. You can also use plastic boxes by making a few ventilation holes. The aim is to maintain a humid but slightly ventilated atmosphere.
At least 10cm of substrate will be placed at the bottom of the terrarium. The substrate is essential because it serves as both a habitat and food for the animals.
The terrarium can be decorated with bark, moss, leaves (oak, beech or chestnut) or branches.
Temperature: Breeding possible between 20°C and 26°C.
Humidity: 70 - 90% The substrate must remain moist.
Lighting: Sufficient ambient light.
Generalist detritivores: The basic food is the substrate . This is mainly composed of leaves and wood of oak, beech or possibly chestnut decomposed and crushed. Branches or pieces of dead wood can be placed on the substrate.
You can add fruits and vegetables, fish food or lichen.
Calcium intake is recommended, we will therefore add cuttlefish bone, powdered limestone or reptile calcium as a supplement.
- Fruits and vegetables must not contain pesticides. It is advisable to rinse them with clean water before use.
- Be careful of mold, you must renew the food as soon as necessary.
Development
3 to 6 months
ADULT LIFESPAN
3 to 6 months
02. Please note
Sexing: Males are smaller than females. They generally have longer legs relative to their body, while those of females are shorter and more robust. Males are distinguished from females by the presence of gonopods.
Prolificacy, mating and laying: High prolificacy.
