Silverfish

Scientific Name: Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family: Order: Zygentoma; Family: Lepismatidae

Size: 13-25 mm (0.5-1 inch) in length

Dark, damp locations with high humidity, such as basements, attics, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Starchy substances, including paper, book bindings, wallpaper paste, glue, and fabrics like linen and silk.

Nocturnal and secretive; they move with a quick, fish-like swimming motion and avoid light.

While they do not transmit disease to humans, they are household pests that can damage books, photographs, and textiles.

Identified on: 3/5/2026