Silverfish (molted skin or young nymph)
Scientific Name: Lepisma saccharina
Order & Family: Order: Zygentoma, Family: Lepismatidae
Size: Adults typically range from 0.5 to 1 inch (12-25 mm) in length. Nymphs (like potentially pictured) are significantly smaller.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in dark, moist, and humid environments within homes, such as bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. They often hide in cracks, crevices, or under objects.
Diet & Feeding
They feed on carbohydrates, particularly sugars and starches. Common food sources include paper, glue, book bindings, photos, sugar, hair, dandruff, and sometimes fabric like cotton or linen.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and move quickly with a wiggling motion (resembling a fish). They are known for being elusive and photophobic (avoiding light). They undergo simple metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).
Risks & Benefits
Risks: They are considered household pests because they can damage property like books, wallpaper, and clothing. They do not bite or sting humans and are not known to transmit diseases. Benefits: As decomposers in nature, they break down organic matter, but offer little benefit in a domestic setting.
Identified on: 2/27/2026