Four-lined Silverfish vs Southern Flannel Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Four-lined Silverfish Southern Flannel Moth
Scientific Name Ctenolepisma lineatum Megalopyge opercularis
Order Zygentoma Lepidoptera
Family Lepismatidae Megalopygidae
Size 8-12 mm 25-36 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Detritivores Omnivores
Regions Mediterranean Europe, North Africa Southeastern United States, Central America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Four-lined Silverfish

A silverfish identified by four dark longitudinal lines on its body. It is found outdoors under bark and stones in Mediterranean climates.

💡

Did You Know?

Unlike most silverfish, it is primarily an outdoor species that rarely enters buildings.

Southern Flannel Moth

A fluffy moth covered in cream to orange-brown fur-like scales. Its larva, called the puss caterpillar, is covered in soft-looking hair that conceals venomous spines.

💡

Did You Know?

The puss caterpillar is considered the most venomous caterpillar in North America, with stings requiring medical attention.