Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Silverfish thrive in high humidity (75-95% relative humidity) and moderate temperatures (22-27°C or 72-82°F). They are commonly found indoors in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, attics, and laundry rooms, especially in cracks, crevices, and undisturbed areas. Outdoors, they can be found under rocks, bark, leaf litter, and in bird nests.

Diet & Feeding

Silverfish are detritivores, feeding on carbohydrates, especially polysaccharides. Their diet includes starches in glues, book bindings, paper, photographs, sugar, hair, dandruff, and sometimes cotton, linen, silk, and synthetic fibers. They can also survive for long periods without food.

Behavior Patterns

Silverfish are nocturnal, fast-moving, and prefer dark, damp environments. They are known for their wiggling, fish-like movement. They can live for several years and reproduce slowly, but can infest areas if conditions are favorable (high humidity, abundant food sources). They often hide during the day and come out to feed at night.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to paper products (books, documents, wallpaper), fabrics, and food items. They do not bite, spread disease, or cause structural damage. Benefits are minimal, though they are part of the natural decomposition process, breaking down organic matter in their natural habitat.

Identified on: 9/3/2025