Introduction: All members of the order Thysanura have a teardrop/carrot/fish-shaped body and get the common name of bristletail because of their 3 long bristlelike or taillike appendages on the posterior/rear end of their body. Silverfish is a common name for species of this group whose bodies are covered with silvery scales. Silverfish are found throughout the United States and the world.
Recognition: Adult body length not including tails about 1/2″-3/4″ (12-19mm). Wingless with flattened body. Shape teardrop/carrot/fishlike tapering from head to rear and generally covered with scales. Color silvery to gun metal. 1 species with dark lines running length of body. Antennae long threadlike.
Habits: All these silverfish species hide during the day and prefer to hide or rest in tight cracks or crevices. They can be found almost anywhere in a house including living rooms bedrooms bathrooms attics basements and garages. Silverfish infest commercial structures such as offices stores and libraries.