Pillbugs, Sowbugs, Centipedes, Millipedes, and Earwigs

P. G. Koehler, R. M. Pereira, and R. A. Allen

Release Date: 1/26/2022

Reviewed At: 2/4/2025

DOI: 10.32473/edis-ig093-1994

Agriculture

Abstract

This document provides an overview of pillbugs, sowbugs, centipedes, millipedes, and earwigs, detailing their biology, habits, and control methods. Pillbugs and sowbugs are crustaceans that feed on decaying organic matter. Centipedes are fast-moving predators with venomous bites, while millipedes feed on decaying vegetation and can secrete a foul-smelling fluid. Earwigs are scavengers with pincerlike appendages. The document emphasizes the importance of hygiene, proper waste management, and the use of insecticides for controlling these pests both indoors and outdoors. Publication date: July 1994

About this Publication

This document is ENY-221, one of a series of the Department of Entomology and Nematology, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date July 1994. Revised January 1996, March 2003, July 2011, October 2013, August 2021, and January 2022. Visit the EDIS website at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu for the currently supported version of this publication.

About the Authors

P. G. Koehler, emeritus professor; R. M. Pereira, Extension professor; and R. A. Allen, former graduate student; Department of Entomology and Nematology, UF/IFAS Extension, Gainesville, FL 32611.