Silverfish (likely a nymph or small adult)
Scientific Name: Lepisma saccharinum
Order & Family: Zygentoma (formerly Thysanura); Family Lepismatidae
Size: Typically 12–19 mm (0.5–0.75 in) as adults, though the specimen shown appears quite small (likely a few millimeters).
Natural Habitat
Found in dark, damp environments such as basements, attics, kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. They prefer areas with high humidity (75-95% relative humidity) and moderate temperatures.
Diet & Feeding
Polyphagous feeders that consume starches and polysaccharides, including paper, book glue, wallpaper paste, clothing (cotton, linen, silk, rayon), sugar, flour, rolled oats, and sometimes dead insects or their own molted skin.
Behavior Patterns
Silverfish are nocturnal and photophobic (light-avoiding). They move with a quick, wiggling, fish-like motion. They do not undergo metamorphosis but rather molt throughout their lives, even as adults. They can live for several years.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: They are considered household pests because they can damage property like books, wallpaper, and clothing. They do not bite or sting humans and are not known to transmit diseases, though their molted skins can be allergens. Benefits: They act as decomposers in nature but offer little benefit inside a home.
Identified on: 2/7/2026