Silverfish.

Silverfish. Photo by Sebastian Stabinger

Silverfish in box to show scale. Photo by JohnABerring27A

 

Silverfish have a torpedo shaped body which is covered with metallic, silvery scales. They are nocturnal, and prefer out of the way, humid, dark areas. They may be brought into homes in cardboard cartons, books or papers, that have come from infested areas.

The adult lays an average of 100 eggs and the best development occurs at a temperature of 22-27°C (72-80 degrees Fahrenheit) and at a relative humidity of 75 - 97 per cent.

Silverfish can damage books and papers. Signs of their presence can be seen in irregular chewing marks, holes eaten directly through paper, small dark feces and minute yellowish stains associated with feeding.

Questions & Answers

Do silverfish carry germs and disease organisms?

No. Silverfish usually live in warm and humid places, in basements, around water pipes, and inside linen closets. The silverfish does not breed in or live off decaying organic matter (garbage). Therefore they are less likely to pick up disease causing organisms on their body.

What do silverfish eat?

They feed on starchy substances such as paper, glue, textiles, but they will also eat biscuit and bread crumbs.

How long do they live?

The majority live about 2 years at a temperature of 31 °C (84 degrees Fahrenheit).

How can I prevent a re-infestation of silverfish?

Where possible, change the physical environment, control or eliminate areas of chronic moisture, e.g. leaking plumbing (particularly laundry rooms). Reduce hiding places by strategically caulking, etc.; vacuum and re-organize likely hiding places on a regular basis.

What time of the year are silverfish most commonly found?

Silverfish are year-round pests.

When am I most likely to see silverfish?

Silverfish are nocturnal and are most active at night.

If you require professional silverfish extermination or control, please send us your information and we will be happy to help!