Newly discovered species of 'horrific-looking' giant centipede will give you nightmares

A new and unusually versatile species of centipede called Scolopendra cataracta has been identified by scientists, notes The Verge.

As National Geographic reports, it has the typical traits of a centipede like walking on land and being a venomous carnivore, but it can also maneuver underwater.

In fact, the creature has been called "the world's first known amphibious centipede."

It was initially discovered in Thailand about 15 years ago by scientist George Beccaloni, who works at London's Natural History Museum.

However, it was established as a new species only after DNA analysis of two other specimens found in Laos, notes CNET.

Commenting on the centipede's appearance, Beccaloni told National Geographic, "It was pretty horrific-looking: very big with long legs and a horrible dark, greenish-black color."

Growing to nearly eight inches long, the centipede is considered part of the large-bodied Scolopendra genus.

It is believed to use its marine capabilities to hunt for prey.

Only four members have been located in total thus far, and they have all come from various parts of Southeast Asia.