(from the Greek: thysanos = tassel + oura = tail)

Thysanura are wingless insects with chewing mouthparts, long, thread-like antennae, incomplete metamorphosis, and three thread-like tails at the end of the abdomen. There are also tiny appendages on the underside of the abdomen. In some species the body is covered with scales. Two species, the silverfish and the firebrat, are considered pests. The firebrat prefers warm places, such as in kitchens near ovens. The silverfish is often found in homes. Both species eat starchy materials, such as flour and paste. In bad infestations, silverfish may roughen book covers and papers on which they chew. Jumping bristletails are found out of doors under rock piles or in forest litter.

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