X07 · Insect
Silverfish
Lepisma saccharina
Silvery wingless insects that eat paper, fabric and starches. Loves damp bathrooms and storage boxes.
- Size
- 12–19 mm
- Habitat
- Dark, humid — bathrooms, bookshelves, wardrobes
- Activity
- Year-round, nocturnal
Overview
Silverfish are ancient — over 400 million years old. They damage books, photos, wallpaper, clothing and stored food. Slow to breed but long-lived (up to 8 years). Damage is the main giveaway; you'll often see notched holes in paper or stained yellow marks on fabric.
How to identify
- Teardrop-shaped silver-grey body with three tail bristles
- Wriggles like a fish when disturbed
- Notched holes in paper, books or stored clothing
- Yellow staining on fabric in wardrobes
General guidance only. Information on Home Pest Defence is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional advice. For termites, venomous spider bites, wasp nests in walls, or protected wildlife, contact a licensed pest controller, your GP, or the relevant state wildlife authority. In emergencies call 000; for poisoning call 13 11 26.