Ozark Cave Silverfish vs Common Silverfish

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Ozark Cave Silverfish Common Silverfish
Scientific Name Speleonycta ozarkensis Lepisma saccharina
Order Zygentoma Zygentoma
Family Nicoletiidae Lepismatidae
Size 8-12 mm 8-13 mm
Habitat Caves Underground
Diet Fungus Feeders Omnivores
Regions United States Worldwide
Conservation Vulnerable Least Concern

Ozark Cave Silverfish

A blind cave-adapted silverfish found in caves of the Ozark Highlands. It is completely white and eyeless.

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Did You Know?

It is the only known species of its genus, endemic to Ozark caves.

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.