Millipedes (Eurymerodesmus sp.) – are arthropods with segmented bodies, which are part of the Diplopoda class. Millipedes are widespread on all continents except Antarctica. The term millipede comes from Latin where “mil” – means thousands and “ped” – means feet. Despite the name, millipedes do not have thousands of legs, they have a smaller number, depending on the species.

Millipedes feed on decaying plant matter and small insects, but can sometimes also eat roots. Due to their diet, millipedes are considered beneficial for the environment. They contribute to the decomposition of organic matter and to the control of smaller insect populations.

They prefer dark and humid places outdoors and are often found under mulch, in leaf piles, in pots, in piles of wood and compost, underneath planks or stones. However, when changes occur in their habitat (too humid or too dry conditions), they can migrate and seek shelter in homes. They can enter inside areas through open doors or windows, through basements, cracks, fissures, vents, etc.

Millipedes are harmless, do not sting, do not bite, and do not transmit diseases. However, some species can cause an allergic reaction if the substance they release when they feel in danger comes in contact with the skin or eyes. In addition, their presence in the home can create discomfort.

Millipedes – Signs of infestation

The presence of millipedes can be signaled through their observation. Around the house, you can find millipedes on the patio and terrace, in flower layers, in gardens, in structures such as warehouses, etc.

If they manage to gain entry inside, they can be found most often in places with high humidity: bathroom, basement, near pipes or taps, garage.

Millipedes – Types of treatments

Specific insecticides and ready-to-use insecticides are used against millipedes. If two types of treatments are performed, it is important that the spray treatment is applied before the one with ready-to-use insecticides (no solution will be applied over the ready-to-use insecticides). After the applied solution dries, powder or granule-type insecticides will be applied.

In order for the applied treatments to have the desired results, it is very important to identify and treat the sources and areas with a high risk of millipedes.

Insecticide treatments for the control of millipedes

It is recommended to apply spray treatments. The solution must be sprayed in all areas where they could be hidden: basement, garage, around entrances, vents, under the sink/tub, inside the cracks and fissures near the areas where the activity of millipedes was detected. The solution can be applied with any type of sprayer.

Recommended insecticides:

They are biocidal substances used for treatments against millipedes, most of which act on their nervous system. Against millipedes, it is recommended to use contact concentrated insecticides, which dissolve in water, according to the recommended doses. The solution is applied by spraying, using manual or motorized equipment, depending on the size of the treated space.

Recommended sprayers for the application of insecticides:

Sprayers are low-pressure applicators, which are used for the application of pesticides with precise doses. Their capacity varies depending on the type of device, its design, the application method (manual/motorized sprayers), and the size of the treated space. Special attention must be paid to the settings of the device, as well as to its maintenance.

Ready-to-use insecticide treatments for the control of millipedes

They can be found in the form of powder, granules, liquid, and spray. Ready-to-use insecticides are applied to dry surfaces. Because it acts by contact or ingestion, it is necessary for insects to cross the treated space. It is advisable to carefully read and follow the recommendations on the label of the product.

Considering that insecticides in liquid form cannot be applied to electrical installations, ventilation systems, etc., in these cases, insecticides in powder or granule form are used. Ready-to-use insecticides are applied to dry surfaces.

Recommended ready-to-use insecticides:

Ready-to-use insecticides are pre-dosed solutions and can come in several forms (spray, powder, granules, etc.). The application is made according to the treated space, taking into account the information on the product label. For optimal results, they are usually applied as close as possible to the source of infestation.

In hard-to-reach areas, powdered insecticides can be applied using dispensers.

Recommended dispensers for the application of powder insecticides:

Dispersers are devices specially designed for the application of granular or powder (dust) products. They are used to treat hard-to-reach spaces, for example: inside walls (cracks), behind panels, spaces around electrical outlets, and very narrow spaces.

Adhesive traps

Adhesive traps capture millipedes that cross on the adhesive surface inside the area of ​​action. The traps are installed as close as possible to the areas where the presence of millipedes was noticed (in the bathroom, in the basement).

In addition to their use in order to control millipedes, traps can also be used to monitor them (to determine their presence and degree of infestation in a certain space, in order to carry out treatments).

Traps can be placed even after the application of chemical treatments to verify their results and monitor the treated space. Subsequently, depending on the number of insects caught on the trap, the repetition of the chemical treatment can be considered.

Granule insecticides

Granule insecticides are usually used outdoors, around buildings and structures, on lawns, and in ornamental gardens. Their role is to protect the perimeter by forming a protective barrier against millipedes that can penetrate inside.

Before use, non-target animals and pets must leave the treated area, and food and water containers must be covered or moved.

Protective equipment

Protection equipment has the role of protecting the person performing the disinsection treatments. To avoid inhalation of vapors created during spraying or direct contact with applied substances, it is recommended to wear complete protective equipment. This includes: hooded protective coveralls, gas masks with filters, chemical protection gloves, rubber boots, or waterproof footwear, as required.

Recommended protective equipment:

Protective equipment has the role of protecting the person performing the treatments from dangerous substances. This category includes protective gloves, coveralls, masks, etc. The equipment is chosen depending on the type of treatment, as well as the substances used or the targeted insect pest.

• Protection gloves

• Gas masks, glasses

In order to get rid of myriapods, control measures must be taken from the first signs of infestation. As such, it is recommended to apply spray insecticides and ready-to-use insecticides. In order to prevent penetration into indoor areas, it is recommended to seal access points, reduce the humidity inside, and keep the environment as clean as possible. Outside, it is advisable to maintain the lawn, remove vegetation and remove things that can become a potential shelter for millipedes: piles of garbage, stones, planks, leaves, mulch, etc.