Order: Thysanura

Family: Lepismatidae

 

Firebrats, like Silverfish, are also called bristletails because they have three long tails. These pests prefer high temperatures generally above 90 degrees with high humidity. Firebrats are found throughout the United States.

 

Description: An adult Firebrat&undefined;s body length, excluding the tail, is approximately 1/2 inch long. The body is flat and has no wings. Their scaly bodies have a teardrop shape which is wider at the head and narrower at the rear end. They are grayish in color with many markings and they have long thread-like antennae. Firebrats are often confused with Silverfish because of their similar appearance. 

 

Biology: Adult females lay between 50-150 eggs in cracks and crevices.  Conditions must be warm and humid for egg incubation. Adults live from one to three years depending on environmental conditions.

 

Habits: Ideal temperature is important for Firebrat survival. Firebrats are generally found in boiler rooms, bakeries, hot attics, around ovens or hot water heaters. They prefer the dark and hide during the day. Firebrats feed on things like rolled oats, dried beef, paper, linen, rayon fabrics, and carpet fibers. Signs of infestations might include yellow stains.