Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, cool, and dark areas such as basements, attics, kitchens, bathrooms, and wall voids.

Diet & Feeding

Generalist scavengers that consume matter containing polysaccharides, such as starches and dextrin in adhesives. This includes book bindings, photos, sugar, hair, and dandruff.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and highly mobile insects capable of moving very quickly. They are primitive, wingless insects that undergo ametabolous development (hatchlings look like miniature adults).

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans but considered a structural pest. They can cause significant damage to books, paper, clothing, and wallpaper. They are beneficial as decomposers in their natural outdoor environments.

Identified on: 6/1/2026