Silverfish facts

The Latin name for silverfish, Lepisma saccharina, translates to “sugar eater”. It was chosen because silverfish tend to eat starchy foods high in carbohydrates and protein. The insect’s common name comes from the insect’s distinctive metallic appearance and fish-like shape and movement. They are commonly found feeding on books or book bindings, but may also eat loose paper, photographs, sugar, coffee, hair, carpeting, flour, dried meat, rolled oats and clothing, especially if it has been starched. They are nocturnal and can survive in most climates, but prefer high humidity (75% to 90%) and warm temperatures (70-80° F).