
Community identification
Silverfish
Lepisma saccharina
- Order & Family
- Order: Zygentoma, Family: Lepismatidae
- Size
- 13 to 25 mm (0.5 to 1.0 inch)
Natural Habitat
Dark, damp, and humid areas indoors such as bathrooms, basements, kitchens, and attics, as well as under floorboards and inside walls.
Diet & Feeding
Carbohydrates and proteins, including starches, sugar, cellulose, paper, glue, book bindings, wallpaper, and occasionally textiles like cotton and silk.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal, fast-running, wingless insects that avoid light and thrive in high humidity. They undergo ametabolous development (egg, nymph, adult) and can live for several years.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include damaging books, paper, wallpaper, and clothing. They do not bite, carry diseases, or sting, and pose no direct threat to human health.