Macrolenostreptus

This small, two-species genus is native to Tanzania, though only M. brachycerus has been kept in captivity. Wild populations have both males and females, though current American populations are parthenogenetic.

M. brachycerus does well in captivity with standard millipede care, and breeds regularly, if not prolifically (Orin McMonigle reports that only about 40 eggs are laid a year per female in his book Millipeds in Captivity). This species is also very secretive, spending months buried in the substrate; many enthusiasts have reported only seeing specimens upon unearthing them for substrate changes.

3.5"/8.9 cm is the maximum length currently reported; coloration is an oily pink interspersed with duller red bands. Immatures tend to remain very light in color until they are close to maturity, which takes roughly four years to reach.