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How to Identify Silverfish

Silverfish are small wingless insects. They can damage products such as paper, glues, carpets, cotton and linen products, and starch-based treatments applied to other fabrics (wool and silk are protein-based fibres).

(Lepisma saccharina)

Silverfish

Appearance

  • Silvery-blue or grey in colour.
  • Tapered, tail-like appearance.
  • Wingless, with 2 slender antennae.
  • These teardrop -shaped insects measure up to 10 – 12 mm in length.
Life cycle and habits of Silverfish

Life Cycle

  • Silverfish reproduction habits vary by species – some species laying a few eggs a day and others laying clusters of 2 – 20 eggs on a daily basis.

Habits

  • Silverfish eggs are commonly hidden in tiny cracks or crevices, making them extremely difficult to locate.
  • Silverfish prefer warm, humid places such as bathrooms and kitchens and are especially attracted to paper and damp clothing.
  • Feed on carbohydrates, especially sugars and starches.

Next Steps

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Crawling Insects

Only a small percentage of crawling insects are regarded as pests.