Silverfish
Lepisma saccharinum
- Order & Family
- Order Zygentoma; Family Lepismatidae
- Size
- Typically 12–19 mm (0.5–0.75 inches) in length.
Natural Habitat
Damp, dark, and cool environments with high humidity, such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and attics.
Diet & Feeding
Consumes matter rich in polysaccharides such as starches and dextrin in adhesives. This includes book bindings, carpet, clothing, coffee, dandruff, glue, hair, some paints, paper, photos, plaster, and sugar.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and highly agile creatures that move with a fish-like swimming motion. They are known for their longevity (living up to 8 years) and their ability to survive for weeks without food or water.
Risks & Benefits
They are considered household pests because they can damage books, wallpaper, and clothing. They do not transmit diseases to humans but can trigger allergies in some individuals. In the ecosystem, they serve as scavengers.