Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Typically found in moist, dark environments such as basements, attics, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. They inhabit crevices and undisturbed areas in homes.

Diet & Feeding

Polyphagous feeders that consume polysaccharides, such as starches, dextrin in adhesives, paper, book bindings, photos, sugar, hair, and dandruff.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and move very quickly with a wiggling motion resembling a fish swimming. They are long-lived (up to 3 years) and can survive for weeks without food.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans (they do not bite or spread disease) but are considered household pests because they can cause damage to books, wallpaper, clothing, and stored food products.

Identified on: 2/19/2026