Bug Identifier
Silverfish
Community identification

Silverfish

Lepisma saccharinum

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

Natural Habitat

Inhabits moist, dark environments like basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and attics; often found among paper or textiles.

Diet & Feeding

Consumes starchy substances and polysaccharides, including book bindings, carpet, clothing, glue, hair, paper, and food crumbs.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving; they undergo incomplete metamorphosis and can live up to eight years, capable of surviving for months without food.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to human health as they do not bite or spread disease, but they are considered household pests because they damage personal property like books, photos, and clothing.