What is a Silverfish?

The silverfish (Lepisma saccharina), sometimes called “fishmoth,” “urban silverfish,” or “carpet shark,” is a small insect with a long, slender, flattened body measuring from ½ to 1 inch in length.

It derives its name from the light grey and blue coloring which can shimmer and look silvery as it moves its gradually tapering body across floors and surfaces in an almost fish-like manner.

Silverfish have a three stage life cycle, unlike many other insects and until maturity the young silverfish are white in color and lack the silver scales of the adult. From egg to adult takes about three to four months and the female silverfish can lay eggs at any point during the year.

Why do I have them?

Silverfish like humid areas of moderate temperature and are especially found of kitchen cupboards, basements, laundry rooms, attics, and under bathroom sinks. Dark places suit them well and they can often be found active at night or in dark places during the day. They do not hibernate so they can be active all year round.

Are they dangerous?

Silverfish are not associated with any disease so although not dangerous they can certainly be a nuisance and cause damage. Their source of food can be anything that contains starch or polysaccharides. Many common items containing this substance are:

• Sugar

• Human hair

• Dandruff

• Photos

• Paper

• Glue (especially wallpaper paste, which they eat after biting a small hole in the paper)

• Book bindings

Cellulose can also be consumed by silverfish which means that areas like baths, showers and sinks are targets for silverfish looking for the cellulose in shaving foams, shampoos and other personal products.

How do I get rid of silverfish?

Getting rid of silverfish can be a difficult task as they are generally nocturnal and can move about the entire property in search of food and a place to nest.

American Pest is your one-stop company for eradication of silverfish problems. Our highly trained pest control professionals will make a thorough inspection of your property and then create a custom designed solution to rid your property of silverfish in the quickest and safest manner possible.

Can I do it myself?

Do-It-Yourself methods of Silverfish control are often not successful as it takes a trained eye to know just where to look for these fast and slippery pests. Chemicals and pesticides should always be used with great care as they can be extremely harmful to humans and pets if mixed or used incorrectly.

How soon can you get here?

At American Pest, we pride ourselves on our speed and level of service. For that reason we make every effort to make sure we are with you the same or very next day.

Is the treatment safe?

Every product used by American Pest has been extensively tested by the EPA and registered for pest control use. Only once the product has passed these tests can we use it, and only in accordance with a strict set of guidelines for application, giving you the assurance that no harm will come to humans or pets.

How can I prevent this in the future?

Due to the nature of silverfish, they can be extremely elusive pests, hiding in cracks, attics, cupboards and under floors. The fact that they eat everyday items also makes it very difficult to prevent them from damaging your property.

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