Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, cool, and dark environments such as basements, attics, bathrooms, kitchens, and behind wallpaper or baseboards.

Diet & Feeding

Carbohydrates such as sugars and starches; consumes paper, book bindings, wallpaper paste, clothing (cotton, linen, silk), and dry food products.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive; they move in a quick, wiggling motion similar to a fish swimming. They molt throughout their lives and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Considered pests because they can damage property (books, wallpaper, clothes) and contaminate food. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. Benefits: Minimal, though they act as decomposers in nature.

Identified on: 2/25/2026