Silverfish

(Lepisma saccharina)

Appearance

• Silvery or grey in colour.
• Tapered abdomen with 3 long, bristle-like appendages.
• Wingless, with 2 slender antennae.
• Teardrop-shaped and measured up to 10 – 12 mm in length.

Lifecycle

• Silverfish reproduction habits vary by species – some species laying a few eggs a day and others laying clusters of 2 – 20 eggs on a daily basis.

Habits

• Silverfish eggs are commonly hidden in tiny cracks or crevices, making them extremely difficult to locate.
• Silverfish prefer warm, humid places such as bathrooms and kitchens and are especially attracted to paper and damp clothing.
• Feed on carbohydrates, especially sugars and starches.