Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Silverfish thrive in high-humidity areas such as basements, bathrooms, attics, and kitchens. They can also be found in boxes, books, and closets.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on polysaccharides found in adhesives, paper, books, photos, sugar, hair, and even cotton, linen, silk, and synthetic fibers. They can also feed on dead insects and their own shed exoskeletons.

Behavior Patterns

Silverfish are nocturnal and prefer dark, damp environments. They are fast runners and can be difficult to catch. They undergo ametabolous metamorphosis, meaning they don't change much in appearance during their growth, only getting larger.

Risks & Benefits

Silverfish are considered a nuisance pest in homes, causing damage to paper products, books, stored foods, and clothing. They do not bite or transmit diseases to humans. They have no known significant benefits to the ecosystem.

Identified on: 8/13/2025