Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Found in dark, damp, and humid environments such as bathrooms, basements, attics, and kitchens.

Diet & Feeding

Consumes starches and cellulose-rich materials including paper, book bindings, wallpaper paste, glue, sugar, and natural fibers like linen or silk.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They undergo ametabolous metamorphosis, meaning they don't change much from nymph to adult stage; they can live up to eight years and continue to molt throughout their lives.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or transmit diseases, but they are considered household pests because they can cause significant damage to books, documents, photographs, and clothing. They also indicate high humidity levels in a structure.

Identified on: 5/30/2026