Bug Identifier
Silverfish
Community identification

Silverfish

Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family
Order Zygentoma, Family Lepismatidae
Size
12–19 mm (0.5–0.75 inches) in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Moist, humid, and dark areas such as basements, attics, bathrooms, and kitchens; often found near paper, glue, and starch sources.

Diet & Feeding

Starchy substances and polysaccharides, including book bindings, wallpaper paste, paper, photographs, sugar, coffee, hair, and some synthetic fabrics.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and highly agile; they move in a fish-like swimming motion. They undergo simple metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered household pests because they damage property like books and clothing; however, they do not bite humans and do not spread disease. They are a food source for spiders and centipedes.