Archispirostreptus gigas, the giant African millipede, is one of the largest and most iconic diplopods in the world, often reaching lengths of 25–30 cm. Native to East Africa—particularly Tanzania, Mozambique, Kenya, and surrounding regions—it inhabits warm, humid forests and savannah edges where deep leaf litter and decaying wood provide both food and shelter. Despite their impressive size, they are gentle, slow‑moving detritivores that spend most of their time foraging through decomposing plant matter, enriching the soil as they go.
 
Their body is composed of dozens of smooth, glossy segments, each bearing two pairs of legs, giving them the characteristic rolling, wave‑like gait that fascinates keepers. When threatened, they coil tightly into a spiral and may secrete a defensive fluid containing benzoquinones—harmless to most people but capable of staining skin. Unlike centipedes, they are entirely non‑venomous and rely on this chemical defence and their tough exoskeleton for protection.
 
In captivity, A. gigas is a hardy, long‑lived species when provided with deep, nutrient‑rich substrate, stable humidity, and a varied diet of vegetables, fruits, and decaying hardwood. Their calm temperament, impressive size, and ecological importance as decomposers make them a favourite among invertebrate enthusiasts and educators alike. If you want, I can expand this into a care‑sheet, enclosure guide, or a polished product description.