Larch Sawfly vs Common Silverfish

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Larch Sawfly Common Silverfish
Scientific Name Pristiphora erichsonii Lepisma saccharina
Order Hymenoptera Zygentoma
Family Tenthredinidae Lepismatidae
Size 8-12 mm (adult) 8-13 mm
Habitat Forests Underground
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions North America, Europe Worldwide
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Larch Sawfly

The most important defoliator of larch in North America. Periodic outbreaks can last for years and cause significant growth reduction.

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Did You Know?

Indigenous peoples used outbreaks as a calendar marker, as they occurred with notable regularity.

Common Silverfish

The most well-known silverfish species, found in homes and buildings worldwide. It has a silvery, torpedo-shaped body covered in fine scales.

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Did You Know?

It can survive for over a year without eating.