These insects have three long "tails" at the end of their body and are silvery gray in color. They have long, slender antennae; the body is about ½ in long. They are generally active at night and remain in protected harborages during the day.

(Lepisma saccharina): Silverfish prefer cool and damp locations where the temperature ranges from 70 to 80 F. They are usually found in kitchens and bathrooms, and sometimes in basements. They feed on microscopic mold and fungi that grows in these locations. Adults and immatures have similar habits; the adults may live for more than a year.

Removing accumulations of paper, magazines, and books from damp areas may help reduce infestations. Cracks and crevices in areas where they have been seen can be treated with an aerosol insecticide; commercial cockroach baits may be effective in limiting infestations.