Silverfish

Scientific Name: Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family: Order Zygentoma; Family Lepismatidae

Size: 13 to 25 mm (0.5 to 1 inch) in length

Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and cool areas such as basements, bathrooms, attics, and kitchens; often found near adhesive surfaces or paper products.

Diet & Feeding

General scavengers that consume carbohydrates and protein, including book bindings, carpet, clothing, glue, paper, photos, and sugary foods.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and swift-moving insects that avoid light. They undergo a simple metamorphosis and are known for their long lifespan of up to eight years.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans as they do not bite or spread disease, but they are considered household pests because they can damage books, wallpaper, and clothing.

Identified on: 12/26/2025