Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and cool environments such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and attics.

Diet & Feeding

Starchy substances and polysaccharides including book bindings, wallpaper paste, cereal, crumbs, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They undergo ametabolous metamorphosis (no major change in form through their life cycle) and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans but can be a significant household pest by damaging books, paper, and clothing. They do not transmit diseases.

Identified on: 1/14/2026