Centipedes often top the charts of the creepiest creatures on Earth, but don’t be fooled — these multi-legged wonders aren’t insects. Instead, they belong to the class Chilopoda, famed for their myriad legs, venomous bites, and predatory nature.

Dating back a staggering 400 million years, centipedes are among the oldest venomous creatures still roaming the planet today. Their long evolutionary journey has led to a remarkable diversification of venom types across various species.

Interestingly, not all centipedes possess the same venom composition. A groundbreaking 2019 study revealed that these creatures have evolved distinct venom profiles independently at least five times throughout history. This fascinating genetic adaptation sets apart the five recognized orders of centipedes.

The earliest known centipede venom contained just four simple toxins. Fast-forward to today, and some Australian centipedes flaunt venom enriched with an astonishing 47 of the 48 toxin families identified in science. This evolution underscores a significant advantage in the survival game.

Venom serves critical roles, from acting as a defense mechanism to aiding in prey capture, showcasing the evolutionary benefits that spur its development in various animals. Centipedes deliver their venom through specialized appendages near their heads, which are actually modified legs rather than the fangs many people might expect.

Of the many discoveries, one of the most intriguing aspects of centipede venom evolution is its connection to bacteria and fungi in their habitat. Researchers have identified at least eight instances of horizontal gene transfer — a process where centipedes have acquired venom-enhancing genes from surrounding microbes.

As we ponder the next 400 million years, one can’t help but wonder if centipedes will still thrive and evolve even more potent venom. The future of these ancient predators promises to be as captivating as their long and storied past.