Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Typically found in dark, damp environments with high humidity (75-95%). Common indoor locations include bathrooms, basements, attics, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

Diet & Feeding

Polyphagous feeders that consume matter containing starches and dextrin. This includes paper, glue, book bindings, photos, sugar, hair, dandruff, cotton, linen, silk, and cereal.

Behavior Patterns

Silverfish are nocturnal and move quickly, often with a wiggling motion resembling a swimming fish. They are long-lived (up to 3 years) and can survive for several months without food if water is available.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or sting humans and carry no known diseases. However, they are considered household pests because they can cause significant damage to books, wallpaper, clothing, and stored dry foods.

Identified on: 2/20/2026