Silverfish
Lepisma saccharinum
- Order & Family
- Zygentoma (formerly Thysanura), Family Lepismatidae
- Size
- Approximately 0.5 to 1 inch (12–25 mm) in length.
Natural Habitat
Found globally in humid, dark indoor environments such as bathrooms, basements, attics, and kitchens. They thrive in temperatures between 70°F and 80°F.
Diet & Feeding
Starchy substances and polysaccharides, including paper, book glue, fabric (cotton, linen, silk), wallpaper paste, sugar, and organic dust.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They do not fly but scurry rapidly when disturbed. They require high humidity and often hide in cracks and crevices during the day.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Considered a household pest because they damage books, documents, clothing, and wallpaper. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases but can trigger allergies in some people. Benefits: They act as decomposers in nature, though this benefit is rarely appreciated indoors.