Can Silverfish Bite or Sting?

Do Silverfish Bite People?

Although silverfish have a creepy appearance and are occasionally mistaken for venomous centipedes, silverfish are not known to bite humans and do not carry diseases. In most cases, a silverfish will instantly flee to safety when it is disturbed. Also, there is a greater chance of your hurting yourself attempting to chase one down than of the silverfish hurting you if you catch it. This insect is quite fast over short distances and is capable of hiding in cracks and crevices that humans cannot access. They hide during the day and forage at night. When they find a food supply, they try to make their nest as close to it as possible. While silverfish are harmless to the human body, they do cause damage to clothing, books, papers, food in pantries and wallpaper. Silverfish leave small holes in materials they bite and may also cause yellow staining. Look for their presence in dark and damp locations such as bathrooms, under sinks and in garages. They tend to dwell in clothing and linen piles or plumbing.

Should you locate an infestation, contact a pest control professional. Silverfish populations grow swiftly and can be difficult to control. Pest control experts can develop a strategy to combat the silverfish.

White Silverfish

Silverfish Scientific Name