Firebrat

What is firebrat?

The firebrat (Thermobia domestica) is a stout-bodied, quick-moving, wingless insect belonging to the order Zygentoma. Distributed worldwide, these insects are typically found indoors in warm environments, such as near furnaces, fireplaces, and water heaters.¹²

Measuring approximately 10 mm (0.39 inch) in length, the firebrat has an oblong body that is generally white with light and dark spots. Its life cycle and habits are similar to those of the silverfish. Because firebrats feed on starches, they can become household pests by damaging books, fabrics, and stored food products. When infestations occur, insecticides are often used to control their populations.¹

How do firebrats differ from silverfish?

While firebrats and silverfish are both members of the order Zygentoma and share similar life cycles and feeding habits, they exhibit distinct physical and environmental preferences.¹²

Key Differences

• Physical Appearance: The firebrat (Thermobia domestica) is characterized by a stout, oblong body that is white with light and dark spots. In contrast, the silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) is described as slender, flat, and covered in silvery scales.¹²
• Environmental Preference: Firebrats are specifically adapted to warm environments and are commonly found near heat sources such as furnaces, fireplaces, and water heaters. Silverfish are also found indoors worldwide, but they are not noted for the same specific affinity for high-heat locations.¹³²

Despite these differences, both insects are considered household pests because they consume starches, which can lead to damage to books, fabrics, and wallpaper. Both can be managed using insecticides if infestations occur.¹²

What kind of environment do firebrats prefer?

The firebrat (Thermobia domestica) is specifically adapted to warm, moist environments. Because of this preference, they are most commonly found indoors in areas with elevated temperatures, such as near furnaces, fireplaces, and water heaters.¹²

These insects thrive in such conditions, where they seek out starches to feed upon. This behavior can lead to damage to household items like books, fabrics, and stored food products.¹

What types of household items do firebrats damage?

Firebrats are known to feed on starches, which leads them to damage several types of common household items. Specifically, they can cause harm to:

• Books: They often feed on the starch-based glues and bindings used in book production.¹
• Fabrics: Various textile materials can be damaged by their feeding habits.¹
• Stored foods: They may infest and consume pantry items that contain starch.¹

Because these insects are often found in warm areas like furnaces and fireplaces, they frequently come into contact with these materials in storage spaces or libraries.¹