Captive-Bred Purple Ivory Millipedes | Chicobolus spinigerus

Captive-bred Purple Ivory Millipedes bring rich violet and ivory contrast to a familiar American species. Born in captivity, these Chicobolus spinigerus offer keepers the opportunity to follow their development as they grow, molt, and gradually take on their mature appearance.

Their glossy purple coloration is part of that journey. Purple Ivories are the same locale variation as Black & White Ivory Millipedes, and their purple tones change in late adulthood. At The Defiant Forest, we observe this coloration shifting toward the darker black-and-white contrast of older animals. Individual appearance varies with age and lighting.

Captive-Bred Purple Ivories: Species Details

• Scientific name: Chicobolus spinigerus

• Origin of offered animals: Captive-bred

• Species’ native range: Southeastern United States, including Florida

• Adult length: Approximately 4–4.5 inches

• Lifestyle: Ground-dwelling, burrowing decomposer

• Temperament: Generally calm and slow-moving

• Appearance: Purple coloration that changes as the animals mature

The adult length above describes potential mature size. Refer to the available purchase options for the size currently offered.

Raised in Captivity, With More Growing to Do

For keepers interested in watching a millipede develop, captive-bred Purple Ivories offer more than a single snapshot of color. Changes in body size, contrasting markings, and time spent beneath the surface all become part of keeping them. A recently purchased animal may spend considerable time hidden, so an enclosure that supports its underground life matters as much as its visible display.

Our Ivory Millipede species and care guide provides a closer look at Chicobolus spinigerus, including its development, variation, and care.

Give Growing Ivories a Substrate They Can Eat

A Purple Ivory’s enclosure should provide both shelter and a dependable supply of decomposing plant material. Use a deep substrate containing well-decayed hardwood and hardwood leaves, with additional leaf litter across the surface. Bark pieces provide cover while leaving room for the animals to move between sheltered areas.

Keep moisture available within the substrate, with ventilation and a less-moist area that allow the millipedes some choice. Supplemental foods can add variety, but nutritious substrate remains the foundation of the enclosure. Avoid disturbing animals that have buried themselves, particularly during a molt.

Choose Your Ivory Millipedes by Origin and Appearance

These captive-bred Purple Ivories suit keepers who specifically want animals born in captivity and enjoy watching their appearance develop. Their appeal lies in both their current purple tones and the changes that come with maturity.

Explore our millipedes for sale to compare available captive-bred millipedes, native species, and other varieties.