Most venomous centipede
Who
Scolopendra
What
ranked #1 ranked #1
Where
Not Applicable ()
When
2018

Giant centipedes of the genus Scolopendra are venomous invertebrates with a wide distribution in tropical and subtropical areas. Their venom is injected mostly by means of a modified pair of front limbs rather than by jaws. It has also been reported that sharp claws at the end of its legs can pierce skin, allowing toxin to enter the victim’s body. Centipedes are the closest-living relatives of insects.


Unlike spider venom, centipede venom is relatively little-studied, so there is minimal quantification data available as to its venom's precise potency. Of those most researched species is Scolopendra subspinipes; a study published in PNAS in 2018 showed that one of these centipedes (with a body weight of 3 g) can immobilize a 45-g mouse within 30 seconds.

Possibly the most dangerous species to humans specifically is the Amazonian giant centipede (S. gigantea)of South America and the Caribbean, because not only is it the largest centipede (up to 26 cm/10 in long), but it is a specialist predator on bats. As it preys on vertebrates, while most other centipedes eat other invertebrates, its venom is likely to be much more potent on humans. However, as it is rare and lives in remote caves, no bites are on record so the extent of its toxicity remains to be confirmed.