Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Dark, damp areas with moderate humidity; typically found in bathrooms, basements, kitchens, attics, or under sinks.

Diet & Feeding

Carbohydrates such as sugars and starches. They consume paper, glue/paste in books and wallpaper, clothing (specifically cotton, linen, silk), cereals, and dried meats.

Behavior Patterns

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

Risks & Benefits

Risks: They are considered household pests because they damage property (books, wallpaper, clothing) and contaminate food. Benefits: They do not bite or sting humans and carry no known diseases; they act as decomposers in nature.

Identified on: 2/12/2026