Bug Identifier
Silverfish
Community identification

Silverfish

Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family
Order Zygentoma; Family Lepismatidae
Size
12–19 mm (0.5–0.75 inches) in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Moist, dark environments such as basements, attics, kitchens, and bathrooms; often found near paper and adhesive materials.

Diet & Feeding

Starch and polysaccharides, including book bindings, wallpaper paste, cereal, clothing, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast runners; they exhibit a fish-like movement and are known for their ability to survive for long periods without food.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or spread disease, but can cause property damage by eating through paper, photographs, and natural fabrics. They serve as a food source for spiders and centipedes.