Silverfish

Scientific Name: Lepisma saccharinum

Order & Family: Order Zygentoma, Family Lepismatidae

Size: 13 to 25 mm (0.5 to 1.0 inch) in length

Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Found in dark, damp environments like basements, kitchens, bathrooms, and attics, often hiding in cracks, under carpets, or behind wallpaper.

Diet & Feeding

Consumes starchy materials and proteins, including book bindings, glue, paper, clothing (silk, cotton), and dry food items like flour and sugar.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal, fast-moving, and wingless with a 'fish-like' movement. They undergo ametabolous metamorphosis (molting throughout their lifespan) and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

They are nuisance pests that can damage household property such as books, documents, and textiles. They do not bite or transmit diseases to humans.

Identified on: 6/3/2026