Black and shiny in colour, these Millipedes have a long cylindrical shape and are multi-segmented. Typically, they reach 20-45mm and are distinguished by the large number of legs which usually number in the hundreds. They are known for their habit of curling into a flat spiral for protection.
The Black Portuguese Millipede is an invasive pest species and normally assembles in very large numbers. Millipedes are most active in autumn and typically, an infestation can be expected after the first rains, following a drought or dry spell. They are also visible in spring when the temperatures begin to rise.