Silverfish (Nymph)

Natural Habitat

Damp, cool environments with high humidity such as basements, bathrooms, attics, and kitchens; often found near paper and adhesive sources.

Diet & Feeding

General scavengers focusing on polysaccharides and starches found in glue, book bindings, paper, photos, sugar, hair, and dandruff.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and highly agile; they avoid light and can move quickly with a fish-like swimming motion. They undergo ametabolous metamorphosis, meaning they look like smaller versions of adults throughout their life cycle.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans as they do not bite or spread disease, but considered a domestic pest because they cause damage to books, wallpaper, and clothing. They also serve as a food source for spiders and centipedes.

Identified on: 3/23/2026