Ommatoiulus moreleti commonly known as the Portuguese millipede, Julida,Archispirostreptus, Archispirostreptus gigas,Spirostreptidae,Tachypodoiulus niger,Red-legged millipede,Telodeinopus, is a herbivorous millipede native to the southern Iberian Peninsula where it shares its range with other Ommatoiulus species. From here, it has spread by international commerce to a number of new localities. This species was accidentally introduced into Australia without its natural enemies and has since become an invasive pest. A number of methods have been developed to manage this millipede.
In general, giant millipedes have a life expectancy of about 7–10 years. Giant millipedes have two main modes of defence if they feel threatened: curling into a tight spiral exposing only the hard exoskeleton, and secretion of an irritating liquid from pores on their body. This liquid can be harmful if introduced into the eyes or mouth. Because of this defense, A. gigas is one of the few invertebrates that driver ants are incapable of taking as prey.
