Silverfish

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and cool areas such as basements, attics, kitchens, and bathrooms; often found in storage boxes or behind wallpaper.

Diet & Feeding

Consumes matter containing polysaccharides such as starches and dextrin in adhesives; eats paper, book bindings, carpet, clothing, coffee, dandruff, glue, linen, and silk.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving with a fish-like swimming motion; they undergo ametabolous metamorphosis (lacking a pupal stage) and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans as they do not bite or spread disease, but considered a major household pest due to their ability to damage books, photographs, and natural fiber fabrics.

Identified on: 1/11/2026