Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Warm, humid environments indoors, such as bathrooms, basements, kitchens, and attics. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas.

Diet & Feeding

Carbohydrates such as sugars and starches. They consume paper, glue, book bindings, clothing (like cotton and linen), dandruff, and certain food items like flour or oats.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive, they move quickly in a fish-like manner. They are long-lived (up to 3 years or more) and can survive for weeks without food.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Considered household pests because they damage books, wallpaper, and clothing, and can contaminate food. They do not bite or spread disease. Benefits: Minimal, mainly serving as prey for other insects like spiders and house centipedes.

Identified on: 2/14/2026