Have you seen silverfish in your business or property?

Philip Martin

3 hours ago3 min read

Have you seen silverfish in your business or property?

What you'll learn on this page about Silverfish

Habitat and Behavior
Potential Damage
Interesting Facts
Prevention Measures
Control and Treatment

This week, we’re looking at the problem of silverfish. Silverfish are very common across the world and thrive in human habitats due to our lifestyles.

What are silverfish?

Whilst silverfish are mostly considered to be a nuisance, if they increase in significant numbers, they can become a problem particularly in environments such as sterile places, for example, hospitals.

Silverfish are small wingless insects around 12mm long and silver in colour with a distinctive cigar-shaped body.

Silverfish may be an indicator of a damp problem so it’s always best to get it checked out.

Signs of a Silverfish Infestation

You will probably find them in damp areas, commonly bathrooms, kitchens, cellars and lofts – they thrive in humidity.

Silverfish are nocturnal in habit and they mainly feed on starchy substances such as carbohydrate foods, glues and wall- paper paste. Silverfish can be very destructive, feeding on paper items such as books, photos and plaster

Interesting facts about silverfish

Interesting fact number 1:

A silverfish can grow a new leg if it loses one!

Interesting fact number 2:

The male silverfish spins a silk-thread structure, depositing a small dot of semen under one of the strands. He then coerces the female, by pushing, until she walks beneath one of the strands held tight by the male, comes into contact with the semen and absorbs it into her own body. Wow! that’s not a mating ritual you come across very often!

What can I do to keep the silverfish at bay?

Treat areas of damp
Control humidity
Keep dust and debris to a minimum
Vacuum regularly
Store food in containers with tight fitting lids

How to prevent silverfish

Create an inhospitable environment for silverfish, from maintaining optimal humidity levels to sealing off potential entry points. Armed with the knowledge below, you can take proactive steps to ensure that your home remains silverfish-free.

Reduce Moisture

Dehumidifiers: Use dehumidifiers in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms to maintain humidity levels below 60%146.
Fix Leaks: Ensure all pipes and taps are leak-free to prevent moisture.
Improve Ventilation: Use extractor fans during and after showers, and open windows to enhance airflow.

Entry Points

Caulk Cracks: Seal all cracks and crevices around windows, doors, pipes, and electrical outlets with caulk.
Screen Vents: Install or repair vent screens to prevent entry through vents.

Declutter and Clean

Remove Clutter: Regularly declutter storage areas, especially in basements and loft spaces, to reduce hiding spots.
Regular Cleaning: Vacuum and dust frequently to remove potential food sources like starches and saccharides.
Clean Bathroom: Regularly clean the bathroom, including drying towels and wiping surfaces to reduce moisture.

Proper Storage

Airtight Containers: Store food and dry goods in airtight containers to prevent moisture and food access.
Protect Clothing: Store seasonal clothes in airtight containers to prevent a silverfish infestation.

If you discover you have a silverfish problem, the use of approved insecticides is most likely to prove most effective, contact your local pest control service for help, support and guidance.