Ophistreptus

This small genus of 9 species is found from Senegal and Guinea-Bissau in west Africa east to Congo-Brazzavile and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. There is one species supposedly from this genus kept in captivity, O. guineensis, though it is commonly referenced as being collected from either Cameroon or Nigeria/Ghana (and more rarely from Benin), where according to Millibase this species does not range. In truth, there are no recorded findings of Ophistreptus in Cameroon (several species are known from Ghana and Benin), though this likely points to a lack of collections rather than an actual absence. It is possible that multiple species are represented in the hobby under the one name of guineensis.

In captivity this species has proven itself to be remarkably hardy with standard millipede care, even surviving very dry conditions for extended periods of time. It appears that this species, like many African Spirostreptidae, does need seasonal variation in the form of mimicking dry and wet seasons in order to reproduce, at least consistently; because of this, it is hardly ever available as captive bred specimens. One American enthusiast reported that his specimens reproduced without him recreating distinct seasonal variation aside from temperature changes, though only four juveniles were produced. This species is commonly available in Europe as imported specimens from Cameroon.

What is labeled as O. guineensis in the hobby is a chocolatey, almost golden-brown at times color (hence-wise the common name of "Chocolate Brown Millipede") on the body and antenna, with the legs being striped with a lighter tan color. It reaches to about 9"/23 cm. Juveniles around the 1"/2.5 cm mark are a caramel color with distinct bands.