Introduction
The silverfish is a nocturnal insect that can commonly be found in attics, basements, bathrooms, wall voids, subfloor
areas, and cracks or crevices.
The silverfish, Lepisma saccharina , originated in the tropics,
but it has been able to extend its range to temperate countries by dwelling
in damp and warm locations. Silverfish or their eggs can be unknowingly
transported from one area to another in cardboard cartons, books, paper
and many other carbohydrate substances. Silverfish are wingless
insects that possess a flat and slender, silvery scale covered body. They
have long thin antennae and three slender appendages at the rear of the
body. Silverfish are long-lived insects that can travel very quickly
on flat surfaces. They are scavengers and will feed on crumbs,
dead insects, starch, glue, paste, and an assortment of paper products. The
reproductive cycle of the females vary depending upon their environmental
conditions, and their tiny eggs usually take two to six weeks to hatch.
Sanitation to Control Silverfish
Sanitation is the first and foremost element of any effective silverfish control program and is most suitable for the
control of all crawling insects.
- Vacuum regularly to help remove food particles and insect egg masses.
- Regularly clean around and behind appliances, machinery, countertops,
cupboards, drawers and pantries. Also clean beneath sinks and other
locations where dark or humid conditions exist.
- Wrap or insulate pipes that have excessive amounts of condensation,
repair leaky faucets and pipes, ventilate bathrooms and dehumidify
areas of excess moisture.
Control of Silverfish
Physical Control
Silverfish can be easily trapped in small glass containers or baby food jars. Wrap the outside of the glass with tape and set the container upright in areas where silverfish have been seen. Silverfish will climb up the taped surface, but they will be trapped in the glass container because they cannot climb smooth surfaces.
Chemical Control
Domestic class chemical products available to homeowners for control of silverfish will contain propoxur. These products can be obtained from garden centers or hardware stores. By following the directions for application, methods, and rates stipulated on the label these products can be effective in reducing the number of silverfish infesting a household.
Diatomaceous earth, an active ingredient found in pesticide products, is composed of crushed microscopic marine organisms and is an ecological means of control. This powdery dust is much like an abrasive and it acts by removing the waxy coating that normally prevents the insect from losing water. The insect, after coming into contact with the dust, dies from dehydration. Diatomaceous earth can be applied along baseboards and beneath and behind appliances to control crawling insects. It is non-toxic to humans.
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