Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments that are dark, warm, and humid, such as basements, bathrooms, attics, and kitchens.

Diet & Feeding

Consumes substances rich in starch and polysaccharides including book bindings, glue, paper, photos, sugar, hair, and dandruff.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and highly agile; they can move very fast, mimicking the movement of a fish. They undergo hemimetabolous metamorphosis (gradual change) and are known for their longevity, living up to 8 years.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include damage to household goods like books, wallpaper, and clothing. They do not transmit diseases or bite humans, but their presence can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. They serve as a food source for other predatory insects.

Identified on: 3/30/2026