
Community identification
Silverfish
Lepisma saccharina
- Order & Family
- Order Zygentoma, Family Lepismatidae
- Size
- 12–19 mm (0.5–0.75 inches) in length
Natural Habitat
Damp, cool places with high humidity such as basements, attics, bathrooms, and kitchens; often found near paper and starch sources.
Diet & Feeding
Starchy substances and polysaccharides, including book bindings, glue, paper, photos, sugar, hair, and some synthetic fibers.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and secretive; they move with a swift, fish-like wiggling motion. They undergo hemimetabolous metamorphosis (gradual change) and can live for several years.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans and pets as they do not bite or spread disease, but considered a household pest due to their ability to damage books, wallpaper, and clothing.