Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Found globally in humid, dark indoor environments such as bathrooms, basements, attics, and kitchens. They thrive in temperatures between 70°F and 80°F.

Diet & Feeding

Starchy substances and polysaccharides, including paper, book glue, fabric (cotton, linen, silk), wallpaper paste, sugar, and organic dust.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They do not fly but scurry rapidly when disturbed. They require high humidity and often hide in cracks and crevices during the day.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Considered a household pest because they damage books, documents, clothing, and wallpaper. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases but can trigger allergies in some people. Benefits: They act as decomposers in nature, though this benefit is rarely appreciated indoors.

Identified on: 2/25/2026