Ctenolepisma ciliatum
ExploreInsects
Ctenolepisma ciliatum
Ctenolepisma ciliatum
The Ctenolepisma ciliatum, also known as the silverfish, is a small, shiny insect that loves to hide in dark, damp places. They are quick and have a unique, wiggly way of moving around.
Habitat: Urban areas
Appearance
The Ctenolepisma ciliatum has a flattened, teardrop-shaped body, typically grey or brownish-grey, covered in tiny reflective scales. It possesses two long antennae at the front and three tail-like appendages at the rear. Its segmented body tapers from head to tail, making it distinct from many other household insects.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderZygentomaFamilyLepismatidaeGenusCtenolepisma
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
If a leg breaks off, these insects can grow it back!
Some silverfish species can live for up to eight years!
Their bodies constantly grow new skin, shedding their old, scaly exoskeletons.
They are ancient insects, appearing millions of years before dinosaurs!
Special abilities
Ability
Slippery Scales
Ctenolepisma ciliatum has tiny scales that can detach easily, helping them escape from predators or sticky situations.
Ability
Flexible Form
Ctenolepisma ciliatum can flatten its body to squeeze into incredibly tight cracks and crevices, providing excellent hiding spots.
Ability
Chemical Communication
Ctenolepisma ciliatum uses pheromones to find mates, releasing special scents that other silverfish can detect.
Ability
Long-distance Smell
Ctenolepisma ciliatum has long antennae packed with sensors, allowing them to detect food sources like starches from afar.
Measurements & details
- Size
- 10-15 mm
- Lifespan
- 730-2920 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Ctenolepisma ciliatum loves to munch on starches, paper, and even tiny bits of dead insects.
Primary Foods
- Paper
- Glue
- Book bindings
- Starches
- Hair
- Dead insects
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eaten by
House Spider
Tegenaria domestica
This spider often hunts silverfish in homes.
eaten by
House Centipede
Scutigera coleoptrata
A fast predator, it actively pursues and eats silverfish.
eaten by
Common Earwig
Forficula auricularia
Earwigs sometimes prey on silverfish, especially nymphs.
Traits
Omnivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet includes both plant and animal matter.
Decomposer
Describes organisms that break down dead organic material, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Miniature
Pertaining to species that are significantly smaller than typical or average for their kind.
Speedster
This trait identifies organisms that exhibit exceptional swiftness in movement for hunting, escape, or travel.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Nocturnal
Nocturnal animals are primarily active during the nighttime hours, typically resting or sleeping during the day.
Also known as
Silverfish
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Silverfish are not harmful, but it's best not to touch them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is Ctenolepisma ciliatum?
10-15 mm
How long does Ctenolepisma ciliatum live?
730-2920 days
What does Ctenolepisma ciliatum eat?
Ctenolepisma ciliatum loves to munch on starches, paper, and even tiny bits of dead insects.
Where is Ctenolepisma ciliatum usually found?
Urban areas
How does Ctenolepisma ciliatum hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Ctenolepisma ciliatum have?
6
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