Ctenolepisma lineata

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Ctenolepisma lineata
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Arthropoda Class: Insecta Subclass: Apterygota Order: Thysanura Family: Lepismatidae Genus: Ctenolepisma Species: C. lineata
Binomial name
Ctenolepisma lineata Fabricius, 1775

Ctenolepisma lineata is a primitive insect of the order Thysanura. It is generally similar to the closely related Silverfish but can be distinguished by being rather stouter and less shiny with all appendages (antennae and 3 "tails") noticeably longer. The abdomen is often marked with dark brown lines and the species is sometimes called Four-lined Silverfish.

This species is native to southern Europe but is now found throughout most of the world as an accidental introduction although it is absent from polar and cooler temperate regions (eg the British Isles). It is found both indoors and outdoors and can be a nuisance pest.

Recent studies on this species in Europe suggest that there is enough geographical variation to justify splitting into several species. One form which has already been given specific status is Ctenolepisma almeriensis of south-eastern Spain.

[edit] References

• Chinery, Michael (1986, reprinted 1991). Collins Guide to the Insects of Britain and Western Europe. ISBN 0-00-219170-9. 
• Fauna Europaea
• Picture