Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and cool environments with high humidity, such as bathrooms, basements, kitchens, and attics.

Diet & Feeding

Starchy substances and polysaccharides, including book bindings, wallpaper paste, paper, photographs, sugar, coffee, and linen.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and highly agile; they are known for their fish-like slithering movement. They go through a simple metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or transmit diseases to humans but are considered household pests because they can damage books, fabrics, and dry food stores.

Identified on: 3/1/2026