
Silverfish
Lepisma saccharinum
- Order & Family
- Order: Zygentoma; Family: Lepismatidae
- Size
- 12–19 mm (0.5–0.75 inches) in length
Natural Habitat
Damp, cool, and dark locations such as basements, attics, bathrooms, and kitchens. Often found behind wallpaper, under sinks, or in book collections.
Diet & Feeding
Scavengers that consume matter containing polysaccharides (starches and dextrin). This includes book bindings, carpet, clothing, coffee, dandruff, glue, hair, some paints, paper, photos, plaster, and sugar.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They undergo ametabolous metamorphosis (lacking larval and pupal stages), and they are known for their longevity, often living 2 to 8 years.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite or transmit diseases but are considered household pests because they can damage personal property like books, clothing, and food stores. They also serve as a food source for other predators like earwigs and spiders.