In which class do centipedes belong?

Centipedes belong to the class Chilopoda, which encompasses all centipede species. This classification is based on distinct anatomical features, including the presence of a single pair of legs per body segment and elongated, segmented bodies, which differentiate them from other classes.

Chilopods are primarily characterized by their predatory habits, using their specialized front legs, also known as maxillipeds, to grasp and inject venom into their prey. Their fast, agile movement allows them to hunt small insects and other arthropods.

In contrast, the other classes mentioned have distinct characteristics that classify them separately: Diplopoda refers mainly to millipedes, which have two pairs of legs per segment; arachnids include spiders and scorpions, known for their eight legs; and crustaceans encompass a diverse group like crabs and shrimp, usually with two pairs of antennae and biramous (branched) appendages. This distinction highlights the unique biological and ecological roles of centipedes within the arthropod phylum.