Silverfish are primitive insects which belong to the insect Order Thysanura. Several species enter houses and infest areas where starchy materials such as paper, books and fabric are stored. They also occur in roof cavities. They are often found fallen into baths and sinks, because they cannot climb smooth surfaces.
They are covered with small scales and are somewhat flattened, with long antennae. Silverfish may live up to four years. All stages moult, including the adults. Ceiling insulation, particularly fibreglass, provides ideal breeding conditions for silverfish.
EXCLUSION : Inspecting goods brought into the home ( such as second-hand books ) may help to avoid infestation. Books, files and papers should be stored in light and airy conditions whenever possible. Foods kept in kitchen areas should be stored in sealed containers and crumbs and scraps cleaned up thus reducing the suitability of that environment to silverfish.
TREATMENT : Treatment for silverfish includes spraying and / or powdering as appropriate. Infested areas are given special attention including wardrobes, storage cupboards and the ceiling cavity if accessible.
SILVERFISH
