
Community identification
Silverfish
Lepisma saccharinum
- Order & Family
- Order Zygentoma; Family Lepismatidae
- Size
- 12–19 mm (0.5–0.75 inches) in length
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.