Greenhouse millipede

The greenhouse millipede (Oxidus gracilis) is a member of the class Diplopoda, order Polydesmida, and family Paradoxosomatidae. This species is a well-known pest in horticultural facilities worldwide, favored by the humid and warm environments typically found in greenhouses and nurseries.

These pests target a wide variety of cultivated plants, including vegetable seedlings, ornamental flowers, and bulbs. They are particularly drawn to plants with tender tissues growing in contact with moist soil. Additionally, they are known to thrive in mushroom farms where they feed on organic matter and mycelium.

The biological cycle of this species is highly dependent on humidity. Adults are characterized by a chestnut-brown body, usually ranging from 15 to 20 mm in length. Females lay clusters of eggs in the soil, which are protected by a sticky secretion. The larvae live entirely within the substrate, feeding on decaying plant material and living plant roots.

The damage caused by Oxidus gracilis is primarily mechanical, involving the consumption of root systems, root collars, and germinating seeds. These injuries serve as entry points for pathogens, causing root rot and systemic infections. In severe cases, the entire root zone can be destroyed, leading to plant wilting and death.

Integrated pest management strategies are essential for controlling the greenhouse millipede:

• Maintain proper drainage and avoid overwatering the soil in greenhouse beds.
• Sanitize the growing area by removing decaying plant debris and organic waste.
• Use physical barriers or wet bait traps to monitor and reduce the population manually.
• Apply soil-drench insecticides or granular baits specifically registered for use against millipedes in protected environments.