Henia bicarinata

Henia bicarinata belongs to the class Chilopoda, order Geophilomorpha, family Schendylidae. It is a soil-dwelling centipede characterized by an elongated, worm-like body consisting of numerous segments.

The adult is yellowish or pale orange in color. A distinguishing feature of this species is the specific head structure and the presence of two keels (carinae) on the tergites, which gave the organism its name.

The body length can reach several centimeters. Like all geophilomorphs, this centipede is blind and navigates using long antennae that detect vibrations and chemical signals in the soil.

The organism prefers moist, organic-rich soils, which provide shelter from desiccation. Its high mobility within soil pores allows it to migrate to deeper layers during dry periods.

The life cycle involves metamorphosis, where larvae resemble miniature versions of adults but with fewer body segments, which increase with each molt.

The primary damage caused by this centipede involves feeding on the root systems of young plants. Under conditions of high humidity and limited alternative food sources, it feeds on the underground parts of vegetable and flower crops.

Young seedlings with delicate roots are particularly vulnerable. The wounds caused by the centipede’s mandibles provide entry points for pathogenic fungi and bacteria, leading to various types of rot.

Carrots, potatoes, cucumbers, and vegetable seedlings are the most frequent targets. In greenhouses, the impact is significantly higher due to the stable microclimate and constant irrigation.

Beyond direct root feeding, the centipede can damage seeds in the soil, leading to poor emergence and reduced total crop yields.

Mass reproduction often occurs in greenhouses where organic residues and high humidity create ideal conditions for maintaining the pest population throughout the season.

The pest’s activity is closely tied to soil temperature and moisture. The most active period begins in early spring, immediately after the topsoil warms up.

During the summer, in the event of drought, centipedes migrate to deeper horizons to maintain the necessary moisture levels, although they quickly return to the roots following irrigation.

A second peak of activity occurs in the autumn as temperatures drop and soil moisture rises. During this time, centipedes feed intensively on plant residues and tubers in preparation for wintering.

In protected cultivation, the life cycle does not pause, meaning the pest can cause damage year-round if proper irrigation is maintained.

Adults and older larvae overwinter in the soil at depths of up to 20–30 centimeters, often forming protective earthen chambers.

The primary sign of infestation is the sudden wilting of seedlings or young plants despite adequate soil moisture, indicating damage to the root system.

Examination of the roots often reveals characteristic bite marks or small holes. Secondary infections often develop at these sites, causing the root tissue to darken.

In the morning hours, centipedes may be visible on the soil surface if their population density significantly exceeds the economic threshold.

High levels of organic residue and mulch in the soil often correlate with an increase in the Henia population, as these materials serve as additional food and shelter.

Bait traps made from sliced root vegetables buried in the soil are effective for detecting the pest's presence and assessing the risk to future plantings.

The foundation of control is agrotechnical: deep autumn plowing helps destroy a significant portion of the population by exposing pests to frost on the surface.

It is essential to ensure proper soil drainage to avoid waterlogging, as excessive moisture favors the survival and reproduction of these centipedes.

Effective measures include timely weeding and the removal of plant residues, which serve as the main substrate for the protection and reproduction of Henia bicarinata.

The use of soil insecticides is justified only during periods of high pest density, with a preference for products based on diazinon or other soil-applied insecticides.

• Regular cultivation of inter-rows to disturb movement paths.
• Use of potato or carrot bait traps.
• Crop rotation and avoiding excessive seedling irrigation.