Common Silverfish

Lepisma saccharina

About 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.

How to Identify Common Silverfish

Common Silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) belongs to the order Zygentoma, family Lepismatidae. Adults typically measure 8-13 mm.

Common Silverfish Habitat

Common Silverfish is found in underground habitats, particularly across Worldwide. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Common Silverfish Diet and Feeding

Common Silverfish has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter. This dietary flexibility allows it to exploit a wide range of food sources in its environment.

Where Is Common Silverfish Found?

Common Silverfish can be found in Worldwide, where it inhabits underground environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Common Silverfish can be found

Is Common Silverfish Dangerous?

Common Silverfish is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.

Common Silverfish Role in Nature

Common Silverfish plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Common Silverfish are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.

Seasonal Activity

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Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Common Silverfish

What does Common Silverfish look like?

The Common Silverfish typically measures 8-13 mm.

Where is Common Silverfish found?

The Common Silverfish is found in Worldwide and typically inhabits underground environments.

What does Common Silverfish eat?

The Common Silverfish has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter.

Is Common Silverfish dangerous to humans?

The Common Silverfish is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.

What is an interesting fact about Common Silverfish?

It can survive for over a year without eating.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Common Silverfish (Lepisma saccharina). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/common-silverfish

MLA:
"Common Silverfish." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/common-silverfish.