Silverfish
Physical Features
Gray to light brown, scaly exoskeleton typically 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch. Has three long taillike appendages extending from the tip of the abdomen. Carrot shaped when viewed from the top. Silverfish have chewing mouthparts and long antennae.
Life Cycle
No Metamorphosis
The young look similar to the adults but are white with no scales. The egg hatches between 19-43 days in prime conditions. The nymph molts 3-4 times before reaching sexual maturity, adult state. The time for this to occur can range 2-3 months up to 2-3 years. The male and female exhibit courting behaviors including antenna touching and head wagging. The adult female will lay 1-3 eggs per day during their 2-3 ½ years of life. Eggs are about 1/25 of an inch long. The inseminated female will produce an estimated 1,500 to 3,500 young.
Habits
- Diet: Carbohydrates and proteins. Glue, starchy items. Paper and rayon. Human foods. Can survive weeks without food and water.
- Activity: Will travel distances in search of a food source. Once found they will harbor nearby. Nocturnal.
- Preferred Climate: 45 to 85 degree temperatures.
- Defense: Live in aggregations (clusters) due to pheromones that are released attracting other silverfish to a prime harborage area.
- Cautions: Can damage clothing, paper items including wallpaper, foods.
- Home Invasion: Can be found in cracks and crevices indoors including behind molding, wallpaper, under rugs, wall voids, attics, crawl spaces, linen closets, bookshelves, etc.
Helpful Hints for Control
- Good sanitation practices and inspection of the interior home.
- Reduce moisture. Keep areas dry.
- Store food in tightly sealed containers.
Interesting Fact
Silverfish have been found infesting attics in Tucson. These areas often reach temperatures of 130 degrees with less than 15% moisture.
