Silverfish

Scientific Name: Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family: Order Zygentoma, Family Lepismatidae

Size: 12 to 19 mm (0.5 to 0.75 inches) in length.

Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Found in dark, damp, and cool environments such as bathrooms, basements, attics, and kitchens.

Diet & Feeding

Consumes starchy substances including glue, book bindings, paper, photos, sugar, hair, and some synthetic fabrics.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast runners. They undergo hemimetabolous metamorphosis and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or spread disease, but they are considered household pests as they can damage books, wallpaper, and clothing. They also indicate high humidity levels.

Identified on: 2/10/2026