Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Typically found in dark, damp, and cool areas such as basements, attics, kitchens, and bathrooms. They thrive in environments with 75-95% humidity.

Diet & Feeding

They consume matter containing polysaccharides, such as starches and dextrin in adhesives. This includes book bindings, carpet, clothing, coffee, dandruff, glue, hair, some paints, paper, photos, sugar, wallpaper paste, and linens.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They avoid light and are capable of surviving for months without food or water. They undergo ametabolous metamorphosis (lacking a larval stage) and can live for up to eight years.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or transmit diseases to humans. However, they are considered household pests because they can damage books, photographs, and natural textiles. They are a food source for other predatory insects like centipedes and spiders.

Identified on: 12/30/2025