Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in dark, humid environments such as bathrooms, basements, attics, and kitchens; often hides in cracks, crevices, or under carpets.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on carbohydrates such as starches and sugars found in paper, glue, book bindings, clothing (cotton, linen, silk), cereals, and dandruff.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and move quickly in a fish-like wiggling motion; they are long-lived (up to 8 years) and molt frequently throughout their adult lives.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or carry diseases (low health risk), but they are considered household pests because they can cause significant damage to books, documents, wallpaper, and clothing.

Identified on: 3/7/2026