They are small, soft,wingless, 12.5 to 25 mm length, silvery gray colour and fish like appearance with three filamentous appendages, nocturnal in habit and can run very swiftly. Generally found in buildings, hotels, cafeterias, kitchens, bathrooms, wash basin, sink, in the house of mammals and birds, some found in bakeries to feed on flour and bread, as well as other animal products. Silverfish feeds on any material rich in starch.
Silverfish are small, wingless insects typically measuring between 12.5 to 25 mm in length. They are characterized by their silvery-gray color and fish-like appearance, complete with three long filamentous appendages extending from their abdomen. These nocturnal creatures are adept runners, capable of swift movement across surfaces.
Silverfish are commonly found inhabiting buildings such as homes, hotels, cafeterias, and various rooms including kitchens and bathrooms. They prefer environments with high humidity levels, making damp areas like wash basins and sinks particularly attractive. Their diet is diverse, as they feed on a wide range of materials rich in polysaccharides and starch. This includes paper products, glues, textiles, and even food items like flour and bread found in bakeries or pantries.
Silverfish reproduce quickly and prefer to lay their eggs in secluded areas, contributing to their resilience and ability to establish infestations if conditions are suitable. Their preference for dark, undisturbed spaces makes detection challenging until their populations become noticeable or damage is evident.
In summary, silverfish are resilient pests capable of causing damage to a variety of household and commercial items. Understanding their habits and preferences is crucial for implementing effective prevention and control measures to mitigate their impact on property and personal belongings.