Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and cool environments such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and attics. Often found near paper, glue, and starches.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly herbivorous/detritivores; they consume carbohydrates, particularly sugars and starches (polysaccharides). They eat book bindings, carpet, clothing, glue, hair, paper, and photos.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast runners. They have a metallic appearance and a fish-like movement. They undergo ametabolous development (instars look like smaller adults) and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

They are nuisance pests that do not bite or transmit diseases to humans. However, they can cause significant damage to household items like books, wallpaper, and clothing. In the ecosystem, they serve as decomposers.

Identified on: 3/4/2026