Bug Identifier
Silverfish
Community identification

Silverfish

Lepisma saccharina

Order & Family
Order: Zygentoma, Family: Lepismatidae
Size
13 to 25 mm (0.5 to 1.0 inch)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.