Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Typically found in dark, damp environments indoors like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and attics. They prefer humidity between 75-95%.

Diet & Feeding

Polyphagous feeders that consume polysaccharides, such as starches and dextrin found in adhesives (book bindings, wallpaper paste), paper, photos, carpet, sugar, hair, and dandruff.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and move with a wiggling motion resembling a fish. They are very fast runners but cannot fly. They molt throughout their lives, even as adults.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans (they do not bite or spread disease) but are considered household pests because they can cause damage to books, wallpaper, clothing, and pantry items by eating starchy materials.

Identified on: 3/7/2026