Silverfish are found throughout the U.S. and are typically seen in moist, humid areas like bathrooms, basements and attics. They tend to hide from humans, which means damage they cause could go unnoticed.
Silverfish are able to run very fast. They don’t have wings, but they do have long, threadlike antennas. Adult silverfish grow to a length of 1/2 to 3/4 inch, not including the tail. Their flat body and tear-drop shape resembles a tiny fish. The fact they’re usually silvery in color and covered with scales adds to that perception.
Their Latin name, Lepisma saccharina, means to “sugar eater.” Some people call them “bristletails” because of their three long tail-like appendages.
Silverfish feed on a wide variety of items, but commonly find both shelter and food in bookcases. They have a taste for books, book bindings and photographs. They can also be found munching on sugar, coffee, hair, carpeting, flour, dried meat, and rolled oats. Starched clothing is a favorite.
They are nocturnal and can survive in most climates, but prefer humidity in the range of 75% to 90%, and warm temperatures of 70-80° F.
The best way to know if you’re being affected is to watch for signs of feeding. You may see marks, notches along an edge, or etchings of the surface of an article. Yellow stains, scales or tiny black pepper-like feces may be seen where they’ve been.
You can discourage their presence by
- Maintaining relative moisture in your home low. Silverfish do not like dry places. Controlling moisture will also help prevent mold and mildew, two items silverfish will eat.
- Keep grains, cereals, flour, sugar, cookies, etc. in tightly-sealed containers.
- Remove all unused cardboard boxes from your home
- Store paperwork in sealed containers.
Silverfish are not a direct threat to people, but they can certainly damage valuable household items. This is especially true if a colony of silverfish has invaded.
If you discover a silverfish infestation, we are happy to help! Call us at 405-679-8729 for a free consultation.
