Caribbean yellow-banded millipede

Anadenobolus monilicornis, commonly known as the Caribbean yellow-banded millipede, is a species of millipede within the order Polydesmida and the family Rhinocricidae. Originally native to the Caribbean islands and parts of South America, this species has successfully colonized diverse tropical and subtropical environments, often becoming a nuisance in agricultural settings.

The morphology of this millipede is quite distinct, featuring a dark, cylindrical body adorned with vibrant yellow or orange bands across each body segment. Adults typically measure between 4 to 7 centimeters in length. They are primarily nocturnal, preferring dark, moist environments where they can easily burrow into the substrate or find shelter under organic debris.

In greenhouses and nursery environments, these millipedes are considered significant pests. While they primarily feed on decaying organic matter, they frequently switch to living plant tissue when populations are high or when food sources are scarce. They target seedlings, young roots, and succulent stems, leading to stunted growth, wilting, or complete plant death.

The life history of Anadenobolus monilicornis involves a series of molts, during which the millipede increases in length and segment count. Eggs are typically deposited in humid soil rich in humus. Due to their preference for high humidity, greenhouses with constant irrigation provide an ideal breeding ground, allowing the population to grow rapidly throughout the year.

Effective management and control strategies for this pest include a combination of sanitation and chemical interventions:

• Sanitize greenhouse substrates and avoid excessive mulch that provides hiding places.
• Implement proper drainage to keep the soil surface less attractive to millipedes.
• Utilize barrier methods or diatomaceous earth around the base of valuable plants.
• Apply soil-applied insecticides specifically labeled for greenhouse use if manual control or habitat modification is insufficient.