Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Typically found in dark, damp environments such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens, attics, and behind wallpaper. They thrive in areas with high humidity (75-95% relative humidity).

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous scavengers that feed on carbohydrates and proteins. Their diet includes items rich in starch or dextrin like book bindings, paper, photos, carpet, clothing, dandruff, and sugar.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive, they move quickly with a distinctive fish-like wiggling motion (hence the name). They avoid light and can survive for long periods (even weeks) without food.

Risks & Benefits

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

Identified on: 2/18/2026