Chinese red-headed centipede
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| Scolopendra subspinipes mutilans L. Koch, 1878 |
The Chinese red-headed centipede, also known as the Chinese red head, (Scolopendra subspinipes mutilans) is a centipede from East Asia and Australasia [1]. It averages 20 cm (8 inches) in length and lives in an aquatic environment.
In ancient Chinese traditions, this centipede is used for its healing properties. It is said that putting a Chinese red head on a rash or other skin-disease will speed up the healing process.
It is rumoured that eating this centipede has a stimulating effect.
Scolopendra subspinipes mutilans is known for harbouring little aggression to other centipedes, a trait very rare amongst giant centipedes and allows it to be kept communally.
