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Silverfish Scientific Name

The Lespisma sacchrina, or silverfish, dates back 300 million years to the Paleozoic era. As such, silverfish are commonly referred to as the walking fossils of the insect world. Also known as fishmoths and urban silverfish, they are small insects that measure between 1/2 and one inch in length. They have six legs, are wingless and display brown or white-silver coloration. Young silverfish can be white in color. This insect's common name refers to its coloration; the scientific name refers to the silverfish's starch and sugar-rich diet.

Silverfish can survive in almost any environment, although they prefer humid conditions. They are capable of surviving long periods of time without food and. Because silverfish are nocturnal and run incredibly fast, they are sometimes very difficult to see. The presence of one silverfish commonly indicates a larger population exists within the home, so contact your local pest control professional to address an infestation.

White Silverfish

Silverfish Bite