Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and cool environments such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

Diet & Feeding

Starch and sugar substances (polysaccharides); they consume paper, book bindings, wallpaper paste, clothing, and various food items like oats or flour.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and highly agile; they can move very fast when disturbed. They undergo direct development (simple metamorphosis) and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans as they do not bite or spread disease; however, they are considered pests due to the damage they cause to household property like books and fabrics. They play a minor role in the ecosystem as decomposers.

Identified on: 3/6/2026