Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Found in dark, damp environments such as basements, bathrooms, attics, kitchens, and laundry rooms. They flourish in areas with high humidity (75-95% relative humidity) and moderate temperatures.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on carbohydrates and starches. Common food items include paper, book bindings, wallpaper paste, cereal, insulation, glue, silk, cotton, linen, dandruff, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Silverfish are nocturnal and tend to move very quickly in a wiggling motion that resembles a fish swimming (hence the name). They are long-lived insects, sometimes surviving up to 8 years, and grow by molting throughout their lives.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: They are considered household pests because they can damage property like books, wallpaper, photos, and clothing. They can contaminate food stores. Benefits: They do not bite humans, sting, or transmit diseases directly, serving primarily as decomposers in nature.

Identified on: 2/12/2026