Centipede with earthworm

(Lithobius forficatus / Dendrobaena octaedra)

Models on a scale of 20:1
The models are firmly installed on a base (forest floor, also modeled true to scale)

Total dimensions: approx. 110 cm long | 70 cm wide | 35 cm high

A centipede eats an earthworm

This scenario of predator and prey shows an everyday drama, as it happens around us in places hard to find. The scene of "crime" is the upper layer of soil in forests, under stones or dead bark.

As soon as a feeler has contacted the victim, the night-active aggressor will snatch its prey with his forceful pincers of the jaw. At the same time the victim will be paralyzed by injection of a highly effective poisonous substance, before it will be devoured.

The earthworm of the type Dendrobaena octaedra features amongst other characteristics eight regularly arranged rows of bristles alongside the body. This mere fact lends the earthworm to appear somewhat octagonal (octaedra!).
The bristles serve as hooks in the earth and as such enhance locomotion. In situations of danger the worm will press out the bristles even further, as can be seen in this model.