These insects are from the Lepismatidae family and they are probably one of the oldest insects on earth. These insects have long flattened body that is covered for the most part by individual scales and they have no wings. White to brown-grey or bluish-silver in color, silverfish are teardrop-shaped insects that measure up to12-19 mm in length. They grow from egg to adult without any visible change in appearance.
They are capable of thriving in most climates, but prefer to dwell in dark, damp areas such as basements, attics, kitchens and bathrooms. They are especially attracted to paper and damp clothing and are commonly found in boxes stored in garages and sheds.
Silverfish can damage wallpaper, books, food and wooden materials that are held together by glue. They usually leave behind holes or yellow stains after feeding on substances that contain protein, starch or glue.
This insect does not transmit any known harmful diseases but they do cause damage to books. Most often, homeowners detect silverfish when they find one on the floor or in a sink or bathtub. Their feeding damage also can indicate their presence, along with their tiny feces.
SILVERFISH CONTROL STRATEGIES:
PEST CONTROL MEASURES ARE COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS FOR PREVENTING THE INFESTATION OF SILVERFISH.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES THAT ARE RECOMMENDED:
- Prevention of the formation of moisture conditions that are favorable habitats for this series by opening windows and increasing the ventilation of rooms.
- Silverfish infestation prevention measures should include installing nets.
- Covering food items securely and dispersing bait traps.
- Using a powerful vacuum, suction areas such as libraries, crevices and cabinets.
- Seal off small cracks to prevent silverfish from inhabiting those areas and apply insecticide drying agents to cracks and crevices to help kill off silverfish.
- Silverfish control actions used as complementary prevention treatments, are applied by spraying pesticides in advance to ceilings, walls, behind pictures and books and clothes closets.