Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and cool environments with high humidity like basements, attics, kitchens, and bathrooms. Often found in proximity to paper and starches.

Diet & Feeding

They consume starches and dextrin in adhesives, including book bindings, carpet fibers, paper, photos, sugar, hair, and dandruff. They can also feed on linen, silk, and synthetic fibers.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and move with a characteristic fish-like swimming motion. They are known for their longevity (living up to 8 years) and their ability to survive for weeks without food or water. They undergo a hemimetabolous life cycle.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or transmit diseases to humans but are considered a major household pest. They can cause significant damage to books, documents, and clothing. In small numbers, they are harmless but once an infestation is established, it can be difficult to eliminate.

Identified on: 3/17/2026