Thysanurans

Thysanurans, commonly known as silverfish and bristletails, are a group of primitive, wingless insects belonging to the order Zygentoma. These ancient creatures are characterized by their elongated, flattened bodies, which are covered in fine scales. They typically possess three long, thread-like appendages at the end of their abdomen: two cerci and one median filament. Their antennae are also long and slender.

Thysanurans are nocturnal and prefer humid, dark environments. They are often found in homes, particularly in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, where they feed on starchy materials such as glue in book bindings, wallpaper paste, clothing, and food crumbs. Their feeding habits can sometimes lead them to be considered household pests.

These insects undergo incomplete metamorphosis, meaning they hatch from eggs as miniature versions of the adults and molt several times as they grow. They are among the most primitive living insects, with fossil records suggesting their ancestors existed over 400 million years ago. Despite their ancient lineage and sometimes unwelcome presence in homes, thyanurans are generally harmless to humans. Their primary ecological role is as detritivores, aiding in the decomposition of organic matter.