Silverfish

Scientific Name: Lepisma saccharina

Order & Family: Zygentoma / Lepismatidae

Size: 12–19 mm (0.5–0.75 in) long

Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and cool areas including basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and attics.

Diet & Feeding

Starchy substances like paper, book bindings, wallpaper paste, cereal, and fabric.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and move with a fast, fish-like motion. They hide in cracks and crevices during the day.

Risks & Benefits

They are nuisance pests that can damage household property. They are harmless to humans but may trigger allergies in some people.

Identified on: 4/27/2026