Silverfish

Scientific Name: Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family: Zygentoma, Lepismatidae

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

Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Found in humid, dark, and damp environments such as basements, attics, kitchens, and bathrooms. They often hide in cracks and crevices.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous scavengers that consume matter containing polysaccharides, such as starches and dextrin in adhesives. This includes book bindings, photos, sugar, hair, and dandruff.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-running. They have a fish-like movement and are known for their long lifespan (3-8 years) and primitive wingless body.

Risks & Benefits

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

Identified on: 2/19/2026