Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Moist, dark environments such as basements, attics, kitchens, and bathrooms; they are common in urban residential areas.

Diet & Feeding

Detritivores that consume carbohydrates and starches, including book bindings, wallpaper paste, cereal, clothing (cotton/linen), and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and fast-moving with a fish-like swimming motion; they undergo hemimetabolous metamorphosis and can live up to eight years.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans; they carry no diseases but are considered household pests because they damage personal property like books, photos, and clothing.

Identified on: 1/10/2026