Bug Identifier
Silverfish
Community identification

Silverfish

Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family
Order: Zygentoma, Family: Lepismatidae
Size
12-19 mm (0.5 to 0.75 inches) in length excluding tails.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Dark, damp, and high-humidity environments such as basements, attics, bathrooms, and kitchens.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that consume carbohydrates and starches found in books, wallpaper paste, clothing, and household dust.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal insects known for their fast, fish-like swimming movements. They undergo a three-stage life cycle: egg, nymph, and adult.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans as they do not bite or carry disease, but are considered pests as they can damage property like books and fabrics.