Lepisma saccharina
Physical Features
Gray to light brown, scaly exoskeleton typically 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch. Has three long taillike appendages extending from the tip of the abdomen. Carrot shaped when viewed from the top. Silverfish have chewing mouthparts and long antennae.
Habits
- Diet: Carbohydrates and proteins. Glue, starchy items. Paper and rayon. Human foods. Can survive weeks without food and water.
- Activity: Will travel distances in search of a food source. Once found they will harbor nearby. Nocturnal.
- Preferred Climate: 45 to 85 degree temperatures.
- Defense: Live in aggregations (clusters) due to pheromones that are released attracting other silverfish to a prime harborage area.
- Cautions: Can damage clothing, paper items including wallpaper, foods.
- Home Invasion: Can be found in cracks and crevices indoors including behind molding, wallpaper, under rugs, wall voids, attics, crawl spaces, linen closets, bookshelves, etc.
Helpful Hints
- Good sanitation practices and inspection of the interior home.
- Reduce moisture. Keep areas dry.
- Store food in tightly sealed containers.
Interesting Facts
Silverfish have been found infesting attics in Tucson. These areas often reach temperatures of 130 degrees with less than 15% moisture.
Symptoms
Silverfish are not known to bite people and do not carry diseases. There is more of a chance of hurting yourself attempting to chase one down than of the silverfish hurting you if you catch it.
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