Scientists exploring northern Thailand’s hidden caves have made an extraordinary discovery: a new millipede species that resembles a tiny dragon. Found in the Pha Daeng Cave of Mae Hong Son Province near the Myanmar border, this unusual creature has attracted global scientific attention for its unique appearance and behaviour. Named Desmoxytes chaofa, or the Princess Dragon Millipede, it is distinguished by its spiky, dragon-like body and delicate, elongated legs. The term “chaofa,” which means “royal princess” in Thai, honours Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn for her lifelong dedication to environmental conservation. This remarkable finding not only enriches Thailand’s catalogue of rare species but also underscores the importance of studying and protecting the country’s hidden cave ecosystems , which continue to reveal nature’s extraordinary secrets.
Thailand’s Pha Daeng cave reveals mysterious new millipede species
In 2024, a group of researchers ventured into the Pha Daeng Cave to explore its unique karst ecosystem, a terrain formed from soluble rocks such as limestone that often conceals unseen life forms. The scientists were particularly interested in animals that thrive in such dark, rocky environments. During their expedition, they noticed small, spiky creatures clinging to damp cave walls and mating on the rocks. Upon closer observation, it became clear that they had stumbled upon a millipede species never recorded before.
The discovery, later confirmed and detailed by the research team, represents a significant step in understanding cave-dwelling arthropods and their adaptations to isolated habitats. According to the study published in Tropical Natural Survey, this is the first known sighting of the species in the world.
Princess dragon millipede: Thailand’s new dragon-like millipede species
After a detailed study, the team concluded that the millipede belonged to a new species and named it Desmoxytes chaofa, commonly referred to as the Princess Dragon Millipede. The term “chaofa” translates to “royal princess” in Thai, a tribute to Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn for her enduring commitment to environmental protection and wildlife conservation.
The name reflects both the elegance and uniqueness of the creature. Its striking appearance, marked by elongated legs, fine antennae, and intricate body structure, gives it a resemblance to mythical dragons earning it the nickname “Princess Dragon Millipede.”
Appearance and adaptations of the Princess dragon millipede
The Princess Dragon Millipede is a small yet captivating insect, measuring approximately one inch in length. It possesses twenty body segments, each adorned with sharp, wing-like projections that resemble miniature spikes. This spiny texture enhances its dragon-like look while possibly serving as a form of protection against predators.
Its dark brown coloration allows it to blend seamlessly with the moss-covered cave surfaces, providing effective camouflage in its damp and shadowy environment. The long, slender legs and antennae help it navigate slippery rocks with precision. The cool, moist conditions of the cave — coupled with the presence of moss and algae — create a perfect microhabitat that sustains the millipede’s survival.
Life and behaviour of the Princess dragon millipede in Thailand’s caves
Scientists observed the millipedes actively moving, feeding, and mating on the cave’s walls, suggesting a thriving, self-sustaining population. The Pha Daeng Cave’s constant humidity and stable temperature offer a safe refuge for the species, shielding it from environmental fluctuations. The presence of moss and microbial life likely supports their food chain, allowing this small but complex ecosystem to persist deep underground.
The discovery not only reveals a new species but also provides valuable insights into how millipedes and similar organisms adapt to life in isolated and extreme environments such as limestone caves.
Genetic analysis and scientific significance
To confirm its uniqueness, researchers conducted a DNA analysis of the new species. The results revealed that the Desmoxytes chaofa genome differed by at least 10% from other known millipede species within the same genus, affirming it as a distinct discovery. Interestingly, the study also documented another new species found in the same cave — this one distinguished by its pink legs, further emphasizing the biological diversity of the area.
The findings were published on 14 October 2025 in the scientific journal Tropical Natural History. Each year, thousands of new species are identified across the world, yet discoveries like the Princess Dragon Millipede remind us how much remains hidden in Earth’s unexplored corners.
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Thailand’s Pha Daeng cave reveals mysterious new millipede species
In 2024, a group of researchers ventured into the Pha Daeng Cave to explore its unique karst ecosystem, a terrain formed from soluble rocks such as limestone that often conceals unseen life forms. The scientists were particularly interested in animals that thrive in such dark, rocky environments. During their expedition, they noticed small, spiky creatures clinging to damp cave walls and mating on the rocks. Upon closer observation, it became clear that they had stumbled upon a millipede species never recorded before.
The discovery, later confirmed and detailed by the research team, represents a significant step in understanding cave-dwelling arthropods and their adaptations to isolated habitats. According to the study published in Tropical Natural Survey, this is the first known sighting of the species in the world.
Princess dragon millipede: Thailand’s new dragon-like millipede species
After a detailed study, the team concluded that the millipede belonged to a new species and named it Desmoxytes chaofa, commonly referred to as the Princess Dragon Millipede. The term “chaofa” translates to “royal princess” in Thai, a tribute to Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn for her enduring commitment to environmental protection and wildlife conservation.
The name reflects both the elegance and uniqueness of the creature. Its striking appearance, marked by elongated legs, fine antennae, and intricate body structure, gives it a resemblance to mythical dragons earning it the nickname “Princess Dragon Millipede.”
Appearance and adaptations of the Princess dragon millipede
The Princess Dragon Millipede is a small yet captivating insect, measuring approximately one inch in length. It possesses twenty body segments, each adorned with sharp, wing-like projections that resemble miniature spikes. This spiny texture enhances its dragon-like look while possibly serving as a form of protection against predators.
Its dark brown coloration allows it to blend seamlessly with the moss-covered cave surfaces, providing effective camouflage in its damp and shadowy environment. The long, slender legs and antennae help it navigate slippery rocks with precision. The cool, moist conditions of the cave — coupled with the presence of moss and algae — create a perfect microhabitat that sustains the millipede’s survival.
Life and behaviour of the Princess dragon millipede in Thailand’s caves
Scientists observed the millipedes actively moving, feeding, and mating on the cave’s walls, suggesting a thriving, self-sustaining population. The Pha Daeng Cave’s constant humidity and stable temperature offer a safe refuge for the species, shielding it from environmental fluctuations. The presence of moss and microbial life likely supports their food chain, allowing this small but complex ecosystem to persist deep underground.
The discovery not only reveals a new species but also provides valuable insights into how millipedes and similar organisms adapt to life in isolated and extreme environments such as limestone caves.
Genetic analysis and scientific significance
To confirm its uniqueness, researchers conducted a DNA analysis of the new species. The results revealed that the Desmoxytes chaofa genome differed by at least 10% from other known millipede species within the same genus, affirming it as a distinct discovery. Interestingly, the study also documented another new species found in the same cave — this one distinguished by its pink legs, further emphasizing the biological diversity of the area.
The findings were published on 14 October 2025 in the scientific journal Tropical Natural History. Each year, thousands of new species are identified across the world, yet discoveries like the Princess Dragon Millipede remind us how much remains hidden in Earth’s unexplored corners.
Also Read | Astronomers observe rings forming around icy body Chiron between Saturn and Uranus; revealing how cosmic ring systems evolve
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