**Zygentoma** is the scientific Order containing the **Silverfish** (*Lepisma saccharinum*) and **Firebrats** (*Thermobia domestica*). The conflict is **structural and property damage**: they feed on materials high in starch or polysaccharides, including paper, book bindings, wallpaper glue, cotton, silk, flour, and starched fabrics. They contaminate and damage irreplaceable items in homes, libraries, and museums, and their presence is highly indicative of high humidity conditions.
Taxonomy and Classification
Zygentoma is a primitive Order of wingless insects. They undergo simple metamorphosis. They can live for several years and continue molting throughout their lives.
Physical Description
Adults are 12 mm to 20 mm long.
- **Appearance (Key ID):** Wingless, elongated, teardrop-shaped body; covered in silvery or gray scales; three long, thin, bristle-like appendages at the tail end (**three “tails”**).
- **Silverfish:** Prefer cool, damp areas (basements, bathrooms). **Firebrats:** Prefer hot, dry areas (attics, near furnaces).
- **Damage ID (Key):** Small, irregular **feeding holes** or scraping on paper, wallpaper, or books; small, black fecal pellets; scales found on infested material.
- **Conflict:** Structural, Property Damage, Nuisance.
Distribution and Habitat
Cosmopolitan, found worldwide. Habitat is concealed, dark, moist areas (Silverfish) or hot, dry areas (Firebrats) of a structure.
Behavior and Conflict
The conflict is their slow, chronic damage to valuable paper and fabrics.
- **Nocturnal:** They are highly secretive and only forage at night, often remaining undetected until damage is severe.
- **Longevity:** Their long lifespan and continued feeding activity lead to cumulative damage.
Management and Prevention
Management is **Moisture Control and Exclusion**.
- Reducing humidity with dehumidifiers, fans, and improved ventilation, especially in basements and crawlspaces.
- Storing susceptible items (books, clothing) in sealed plastic containers; vacuuming cracks and corners to remove food sources and eggs.
- Using small dust insecticides or boric acid in cracks and voids where they hide.
Conservation and Research
Research focuses on developing non-toxic monitoring traps and pest management strategies for museums and archives that house sensitive paper artifacts.