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The
Diversity of The World of Life
True
Insects (Insecta)
Silverfish &
Firebrats
(Thysanura)
Representatives
Silverfish
Biology
APPROXIMATE NUMBER OF KNOWN SPECIES WORLDWIDE
300
DESCRIPTION
Silverfish etc. are usually about 1/2" long and
slender. The antennae are long
and
many-segmented. The mouthparts are chewing.
There are no wings. There is
a pair of small, fingerlike growths on each of several abdominal
segments. There are two or three long, thin
tails.
METAMORPHOSIS
The nymphs look like small adults.
HABITATS
Silverfish etc. are found under stones, under bark, in leaf litter or other debris,
or indoors.
FOODS
Silverfish etc. feed on starchy materials and other organic matter.
DAMAGES/BENEFITS
Most silverfish etc. decompose natural wastes; but some eat household
goods, such as papers.
True
Insects (Insecta)
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