Color: Silver to brown
Legs: 6
Shape: Oval, elongated
Size: ¾ inches
Antennae: Yes
Region: Found throughout U.S.
This insect gets its name from its silvery, metallic appearance and fish-like shape and movements. Silverfish have no wings, but are able to run very fast. They tend to hide their presence from humans which means any damage they have caused could go unnoticed as well.
Silverfish have no wings, but are able to run very fast. They tend to hide their presence from humans which means any damage they have caused could go unnoticed as well.
While silverfish are mainly a nuisance pest, they can contaminate food and damage paper goods such as wallpaper and books.
Silverfish are found throughout the U.S. and are typically seen in moist, humid areas in the home, such as bathrooms, basements, and attics.
Looking to prevent or get rid of a silverfish infestation? Consider a dehumidifier for your home, repair leaky pipes and drains and eliminate or repair any moldy or wet wood. Don’t keep old books and magazines in areas where silverfish are usually found like basements, attics and garages. It’s also important to keep food items such as flour and sugar in tight containers.
Silverfish feed on starchy and sugary materials, including paper, book bindings, wallpaper, cardboard, and fabrics like cotton and linen. They’re also drawn to food residue, so pantries and kitchen areas can be just as vulnerable as bookshelves and storage boxes.
Silverfish are nocturnal insects that spend their time foraging for food, hiding in dark and damp spaces, and reproducing. While they don’t bite or spread disease, they can cause real damage to books, clothing, wallpaper, and stored food over time.
Silverfish are drawn to moisture, humidity, and warm temperatures, which is why they’re often found in bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms. Clutter, cardboard boxes, and stacks of paper give them both food and shelter, making storage areas a common hotspot.