Adult : Torpedo-shaped, wingless with a silvery sheen, has long antennae and two long extensions at the end of the abdomen. Has a sharp, rapid movement.

Eggs (100), oval, white and smooth, later turn brown and wrinkled; adults 12mm long; life span of nymphs 90-120 days, adults up to 3 ½ years.

Usually nocturnal, this primitive insect avoids light and is found in damp, dark places such as basements, damp walls, below sinks and wash-basins, etc. It can climb only rough vertical surfaces and is found in books and trapped in wash-basins etc. It can feed on human food but prefers material containing starch such as bindings in books, wallpaper glue and sometimes linen, cotton and artificial silk. It can live for several months without food.