Bug Identifier
Silverfish
Community identification

Silverfish

Lepisma saccharinum

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

Natural Habitat

Dark, damp environments with high humidity like attics, basements, bathrooms, and under sinks

Diet & Feeding

Carbohydrates such as sugar and starches found in paper, glue, clothing, oat, flour, and dead insects

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal, fast-moving, wingless insects that move in a fish-like wiggling motion

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or carry diseases but are household pests that can damage books, wallpaper, fabrics, and dry food goods