Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark areas with high humidity such as bathrooms, basements, attics, and kitchens. They are common in residential and commercial buildings.

Diet & Feeding

Decomposing organic matter, starches, and dextrin found in adhesives. They consume paper, book bindings, wallpaper paste, clothing, and sugary food debris.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They undergo a primitive metamorphosis (ametabolous) and can live for several years. They prefer to hide in cracks and crevices during the day.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered nuisance pests. While they do not bite humans or transmit diseases, they can cause significant damage to household goods like books, photographs, and natural fabrics. They have no significant ecological benefit in indoor environments.

Identified on: 2/1/2026