Bug Identifier
Silverfish
Community identification

Silverfish

Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family
Zygentoma: Lepismatidae
Size
12-19 mm (0.5-0.75 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Moist, dark environments such as basements, bathrooms, and attics.

Diet & Feeding

Starches, sugars, adhesives, book bindings, and household dust.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal, fast-moving, and avoids light. They undergo simple metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans but can damage personal property like books, wallpaper, and clothing. They are an important food source for spiders and centipedes.