Lepismatidae

Definition

A family of primitive, wingless insects in the order Zygentoma, containing approximately 340 described species. The family includes the familiar domestic silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) and the firebrat (Thermobia domestica), both synanthropic species adapted to human dwellings. Lepismatidae is distinguished from other zygentoman families by features of the abdominal styli and coxal vesicles, and is divided into six subfamilies including Lepismatinae and Ctenolepismatinae. Members exhibit ametabolous development, continuing to molt throughout adulthood.

Etymology

From Lepisma (type genus, from Greek lepisma 'peeled scale, husk') + -idae (family suffix)

Example

The firebrat Thermobia domestica, a lepismatid specialized for hot environments such as bakeries and steam tunnels, can complete its life cycle at temperatures exceeding 40°C.

Related Terms

• Zygentoma
• Silverfish
• firebrat
• Thysanura
• ametabolous
• styli
• Synanthropic

Usage Notes

Sometimes informally grouped with other wingless insects under the obsolete ordinal name Thysanura. The family is distinguished from Nicoletiidae and other zygentoman families by the presence of compound eyes (in most species) and details of abdominal appendage structure. Domestic species are economically significant as stored-product pests.