Silverfish (Nymph/Young Stage)
Scientific Name: Lepisma saccharinum
Order & Family: Zygentoma (formerly Thysanura); Lepismatidae
Size: 12–19 mm (adults), but nymphs like the one pictured are much smaller, often 2–5 mm.
Natural Habitat
Dark, damp, and humid environments. Commonly found indoors in bathrooms, basements, attics, near drains, or in old books and cardboard boxes.
Diet & Feeding
Starchy substances and polysaccharides. They feed on paper, book bindings, glue, carpet, clothing, dandruff, and sugar.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They do not undergo metamorphosis but shed their skin continuously throughout life (ametabolous). They scurry away quickly when exposed to light.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: They are household pests that can damage books, wallpaper, artwork, and clothing. They can trigger allergies in some people but do not bite or spread disease. Benefits: Very limited, though they act as decomposers in nature.
Identified on: 2/21/2026