Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Found worldwide in moist environments with high humidity (75-95%) such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and attics. They prefer dark, damp areas.

Diet & Feeding

Polyphagous eaters that consume matter containing polysaccharides, such as starches and dextrin in adhesives. This includes paper, book bindings, carpet, clothing, sugar, coffee, dandruff, and glue.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and moves in a wiggling motion resembling a fish. They are very fast runners but cannot climb smooth vertical surfaces. They are long-lived (up to 8 years) and molt throughout their lives, even as adults.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or carry diseases, so they pose no direct health risk. However, they are nuisance pests that can cause significant damage to household property like books, wallpaper, documents, and clothing.

Identified on: 2/23/2026