Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Found worldwide, preferring dark, moist, and humid environments (75-95% relative humidity) in homes, such as bathrooms, basements, and attics.

Diet & Feeding

Polyphagous scavengers that feed on carbohydrates like sugars and starches. Common food sources include paper, book bindings, carpet, glue, clothing, wallpaper paste, and dandruff.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive, they move quickly in a fish-like wiggling motion (hence the name). They are primitive wingless insects that undergo ametabolous development (hatching as mini-adults).

Risks & Benefits

Risks: They are considered household pests because they can damage property (books, wallpaper, clothes) and contaminate food. Benefits: They do not bite or sting humans and serve as decomposers in natural ecosystems.

Identified on: 2/14/2026