Identification
Silverfish are small, wingless insects measuring about 1/2 to 3/4 inch in length. They have elongated, teardrop-shaped bodies covered in silvery-gray scales. Their most distinctive features include long, threadlike antennae and three bristle-like appendages extending from the rear of their bodies. They move in a quick, wiggling motion, resembling a swimming fish.
Lifecycle & Reproduction
Silverfish undergo incomplete metamorphosis, developing from egg to nymph to adult. Females lay eggs in hidden, humid areas, depositing clusters of 1 to 20 eggs at a time. Eggs hatch in about 2 to 8 weeks, and nymphs resemble smaller versions of adults. Silverfish mature in three to four months but can live up to three years.
Habits, Diet & Behavior
Silverfish are nocturnal and prefer dark, damp environments. They feed on starchy materials, including paper, glue, wallpaper, books, fabrics, and dried foods. They can survive long periods without food and are highly secretive, often hiding in small crevices.
Where You’ll Find Them / Typical Locations
Silverfish thrive in humid areas and are commonly found in:
- Bathrooms and laundry rooms
- Basements and attics
- Closets and storage boxes
- Under sinks and near plumbing fixtures
- Bookshelves and wallpapered walls
Threats & Danger
Silverfish do not bite or spread disease, but they can damage paper products, fabrics, and stored food. Their feeding habits make them a nuisance in libraries, archives, and households with wallpapered walls or cardboard storage.
Prevention
- Reduce indoor humidity with dehumidifiers or ventilation
- Store books, papers, and clothing in airtight containers
- Seal cracks and crevices where silverfish may hide
- Vacuum regularly to remove eggs and food particles
- Use silica gel or desiccants in storage areas
Signs of Infestation
- Sightings of silverfish in dark, humid areas
- Small holes and irregular feeding marks on paper or fabric
- Yellowish stains or scales left behind
- Presence of tiny, black fecal droppings
- Shed exoskeletons in infested areas
How to Get Rid of It
- Use sticky traps to monitor and capture silverfish
- Apply insecticidal dust or boric acid in infested areas
- Reduce humidity to make environments less suitable for silverfish
- Store dry goods in sealed containers to eliminate food sources
- Seek professional pest control for severe infestations