Scolopendridae
Scolopendridae belong to the class Chilopoda and the order Scolopendromorpha. These predatory arthropods are commonly known as centipedes. While they are primarily carnivores feeding on small insects, in greenhouse environments or seedbeds, they can turn their attention to tender plant tissues, causing significant agronomic issues.
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Scolopendridae
The primary crops affected by Scolopendridae include young seedlings, transplants, and root vegetables like carrots and radishes. By feeding on the roots and the base of the stems, they physically damage the plant structure. Furthermore, the damage provides entry points for various soil-borne pathogens, leading to fungal rot and seedling death.
The biology of these organisms is highly dependent on humidity. They thrive in damp environments and organic debris. Their life cycle involves several molting stages, and they are nocturnal predators. Their tendency to hide under debris or within the top layer of moist soil makes them hard to detect until significant plant damage has already occurred.
Assessing the damage caused by Scolopendridae requires inspecting the root systems of wilted plants. Characteristic symptoms include irregular bites and gnawed stems. In commercial cultivation, high populations can cause economic loss by reducing plant density, requiring immediate intervention from the grower.
Effective control measures include:
- Managing soil moisture levels to ensure the surface is not consistently damp.
- Regular removal of plant debris, mulch, and weeds to eliminate hiding spots.
- Improving soil drainage within greenhouses to discourage centipede colonization.
- Targeted application of soil-applied insecticides in accordance with local regulations for severe infestations.