Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, cool places with high humidity such as basements, attics, bathrooms, and kitchens; often found near paper and starch sources.

Diet & Feeding

Starchy substances and polysaccharides, including book bindings, glue, paper, photos, sugar, hair, and some synthetic fibers.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and secretive; they move with a swift, fish-like wiggling motion. They undergo hemimetabolous metamorphosis (gradual change) and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans and pets as they do not bite or spread disease, but considered a household pest due to their ability to damage books, wallpaper, and clothing.

Identified on: 1/7/2026