What's Eating Your Collection?

Adult

Size:10-15mm

Shape: Long, tapered, torpedo-like. Often contracts on traps.

Colour: Silvery grey, can darken on traps

Antennae: Very long and thin

Distinguishing features: Body is segmented, has three long bristles at the back end (cerci).
Silverfish have nymphs (miniature version of the adult) and not larvae. They are much paler and grow from 1-10mm.

Adults and nymphs are pests of: books, paper, archives and occasionally textiles.

Damage: Both adults and nymphs scrape the surface resulting in thinning and ragged holes.

Often found in: Cool, damp conditions. Large numbers indicate that there is a problem with moisture.

May be confused with Firebrat which needs warm, damp conditions.

Note: The name changed from saccharina to saccharinum in 2018. ICZN article 30, opinion 24