Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, cool places with high humidity such as basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

Diet & Feeding

Starchy substances and items high in polysaccharides including book bindings, wallpaper paste, cereal, and clothing fibers.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They undergo ametabolous metamorphosis (primal development) and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans and pets as they do not bite or carry disease, but they are considered household pests because they can damage books, photos, and textiles.

Identified on: 12/30/2025