Epibolus pulchripes is one of East Africa’s most visually striking millipedes, instantly recognisable by its deep black body contrasted with vivid red legs. Found across Kenya, Tanzania, and parts of Zimbabwe, it inhabits humid forest floors rich in leaf litter and decaying wood. In the wild, this species plays a quiet but essential role in breaking down tough, tannin‑rich plant material, helping to recycle nutrients back into the soil and maintain healthy forest ecosystems.
 
Adults typically reach 10–14 cm and show subtle but reliable sexual dimorphism: males tend to have a noticeably glossier exoskeleton, while females appear more matte. Their behaviour is shaped by the rhythms of their native climate. During the hot, dry season, they retreat deep into the substrate to aestivate, conserving moisture until the rains return. With the first storms, they re-emerge to feed and breed, and females will lay small clusters of egg capsules that they guard for several weeks.