What are Silverfish?
Silverfish are scary looking – they get their name because they look a bit like a fish when seen from above and even sway like a fish that is swimming. But they are also pretty scary as a concept. If you see a silverfish in your home, then that means your peaceful sanctuary has been breached by these invasive and bothersome insects!
At Alta Pest Control, we aren’t afraid to do a little fishing now and then – silverfishing that is. Our silverfish control specialists are here to deliver the Gold Standard that each and every client deserves. Whether your home is overrun with silverfish or they are scaring people in your office, you can count on us to step up to the challenge and find the best way to get those silverfish off your property.
Silverfish look scary and alien, but that is only half right. They aren’t aliens, they’re insects. Specifically, they are wingless, scaled insects that are about 15 millimeters in length and prefer areas of high moisture.
What kinds of Silverfish are there?
Common Silverfish
The common silverfish(Lepisma saccharina) is known for its shiny scaly back and fish-like movement. They're uniformly silver with no specific markings.
Gray Silverfish
The gray silverfish(Ctenolepisma longicaudata) is similar in look to the common silverfish, however, they're lest shiny and more gray.
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Four-lined Silverfish
Four-lined Silverfish(Ctenolepisma quadriseriata) have 4 distinct lines across their back either vertically or horizontally.
Silverfish feed on a variety of materials, including books, paper, wallpaper, and fabrics, and can cause extensive damage to these items if left unchecked. They are particularly attracted to areas of high humidity, such as basements, attics, and bathrooms, and can often be found hiding in cracks and crevices. Over time, their feeding habits can cause unsightly holes and stains, and can weaken the structural integrity of materials. It is important to take measures to prevent silverfish infestations and address them promptly if they do occur to minimize their potential damage to your home.
Prevention and Control of Silverfish Infestations
Prevention is key when it comes to silverfish infestations. Keeping your home clean and dry is the first step in deterring these pests. This means regularly vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture, using a dehumidifier in areas of high moisture, and sealing up any cracks or gaps in walls and floors where silverfish might enter. Additionally, storing paper goods and fabrics in airtight containers can prevent silverfish from feeding on them.
If you do find a silverfish infestation in your home, it's important to address it promptly to minimize damage and prevent the infestation from spreading. While there are DIY methods of silverfish control, such as using boric acid or diatomaceous earth, it's generally recommended to seek professional pest control services. Professional pest control companies have the knowledge and expertise to identify the source of the infestation and apply targeted treatments to eliminate silverfish and prevent future infestations.
Health Risks Associated with Silverfish Infestations
While silverfish do not pose a significant health risk to humans, their presence can exacerbate existing respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. Additionally, silverfish may carry bacteria and other pathogens that can lead to illness if they come into contact with food or other surfaces in the home.
To minimize health risks associated with silverfish infestations, it's important to keep your home clean and dry and address any infestations promptly. If you have respiratory issues or are otherwise sensitive to pests, consider seeking professional pest control services to ensure that your home is free from pests and potential health risks.
Identifying and Differentiating Silverfish Species
Identifying different species of silverfish can be important when determining the best methods of control. The common silverfish is the most well-known species, with its distinctive silver scales and fish-like movement. The gray silverfish is similar in appearance but is less shiny and has a more grayish coloration. Four-lined silverfish, as the name suggests, have four distinct lines across their back, either vertically or horizontally.
While all species of silverfish are known for their destructive feeding habits, different species may have different preferences when it comes to materials they feed on or areas they prefer to inhabit. Identifying the species of silverfish in your home can help pest control professionals determine the best methods of control and prevent future infestations.
