Bug Identifier
Likely silverfish (poor image)
Community identification

Likely silverfish (poor image)

Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family
Zygentoma; Lepismatidae
Size
Usually 10–19 mm (0.4–0.75 in) long, excluding the antennae and tail filaments.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Moist, dark indoor areas such as bathrooms, basements, wall voids, and under flooring; also found outdoors under bark and leaf litter.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds mainly on starches, cellulose, glues, paper, book bindings, fabrics, and household crumbs; it grazes rather than bites.

Behavior Patterns

Wingless, fast-running, and primarily nocturnal, silverfish hide in cracks during daylight. They develop gradually without a pupal stage and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite, sting, transmit disease, or damage structural wood, but sizable populations can spoil paper, books, wallpaper, and textiles. They contribute modestly to decomposition outdoors.