Silverfish

Characteristics of silverfish

A silverfish is not really a fish. Silverfish are, in fact, nocturnal, wingless insects. Their bodies are flattened and tapered from head to rear, and covered with scales. There are 3 long bristle-type appendages at the end of a silverfish's body. Antennae are long and threadlike, while eyes are compound, small and widely-spaced.

Where are silverfish found?

Silverfish are a common insect found all over the world.

Silverfish habitat

Silverfish aren't picky houseguests; they'll take any vacant room in the house. They're flexible in breeding sites as well, such as wall voids, floors and attics. Keeping the house at room temperature and high humidity makes silverfish very happy critters.

What do silverfish eat?

Silverfish are known cannibals. Along with themselves, silverfish will also eat paper, and in the case of some species, linen, tissues and even cellulose. Faced with the option, silverfish will opt for protein over carbs.

All that aside, silverfish can go without food or water for weeks, but once they find it, will stick close.

Silverfish biology

Knock first. Silverfish breeding can take place in almost any room of the house. Eggs are laid in cracks, and cannot hatch below 70 degrees F. Nymphs molt a number of times, and nymphs and adults can survive between 32 and 112 degrees F.

Damage caused by silverfish

For the most part, silverfish just ruin your paper, especially glazed paper, wallpaper and books. However, sometimes silverfish will damage carpeting and fabrics.

Silverfish infestation

Cardboard cartons of books and papers are the perfect vehicle for silverfish and bristletails. Silverfish can get inside through almost anything brought in from the outside and be easily transferred from one property to another. They will hide in dark, damp, places and come out looking for food. Once they start to breed, silverfish can become an infestation easily unless taken care of.

Get rid of silverfish with Western Exterminator

You're going to have to prepare to rid of silverfish from your home. Lower cupboards in kitchens and bathrooms should be emptied, as well as floors of closets and storage areas. You should also make a residual treatment in cracks and crevices, where eggs are laid.

A general treatment along the edges in closets and linen storage areas is also recommended. If necessary, attics and basements should be inspected. Use of residual liquid pesticides or dusts is recommended, and continued monitoring and possible additional treatments may be necessary. Contacting the insects with the material is essential to control.

When using any pesticide, be sure it is registered for the target pest/location. Read the entire label prior to use. Follow all label directions, restrictions and precautions.

Western Exterminator can help out and we are the local silverfish exterminator to turn to in order to get rid of silverfish from your property. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.