Silverfish (Lepisma saccharina), coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). The silverfish is a primitive wingless insect that derives its name from the shiny grey/silver scales that cover its body and its motion that has a fish-like quality. They thrive in damp dark conditions and although they are not known to carry any pathogens or diseases that would be harmful to humans they may cause an allergic reaction in some due to the moulting of their skins. This results in a dust created by their dropped scales. Their diet consists of sugar and carbohydrate and they are considered a household pest having been known to damage books, wallpaper and clothing. Magnification: x50 when printed at 10cm wide.