Silverfish

Scientific Name: Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family: Order: Zygentoma, Family: Lepismatidae

Size: 12–19 mm (0.5–0.75 in) long.

Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in dark, damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, and attics with high humidity.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that consume matter containing polysaccharides, such as starches, book bindings, paper, and adhesive.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal, fast-moving, and avoid light. They undergo simple metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and are known for their longevity, living up to 8 years.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered household pests as they can damage property like books and clothing; however, they do not transmit diseases and are generally harmless to humans.

Identified on: 6/7/2026