PEST
 
   NAME
     Millipedes
     Various Millipedes Species

Description of the Pest
Adults are long, many-segmented, hard-shelled animals belonging to the phylum Arthropoda and have two pairs of legs per segment. Some species can grow to 750mm long. Most are dark brown-black in colour, and when disturbed curl up.

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
Most species are native to Australia, and are most active in moist, protected areas, under leaf litter and bark, etc.

Period of Activity
Active all year in moist warm, sheltered positions.

Damage Caused
Millipedes feed on decaying plant matter, and may attack parts of plants that have been damaged by other pests, enlarging the wounds.  They also feed on the underside of bulbs and can cause substantial damage.

Susceptible Plants
Soft foliage and fruit of a wide range of ornamental plants at ground level or bulbs such as Daffodils and Jonquils.

Cultural Control
Dig around the base of the plant and remove by hand.

Biological Control
None known.

Chemical Control
May take snail baits.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.