Latin Name:

Appearance:

White to brown-grey or bluish-silver in color, silverfish are teardrop-shaped insects that measure up to one inch in length. Three long bristles on rear.  Grow from egg to adult without visible change in appearance.

Habitat:

Capable of thriving in most climates, silverfish prefer to dwell in dark, damp areas such as basements, attics, kitchens and bathrooms. They are especially attracted to paper and damp clothing. Commonly found in stored boxes in garages and sheds.

Diet:

Silverfish feed on carbohydrates, particularly sugars and starches. Cellulose, shampoos, glue in books, linen, silk and dead insects may be food sources.  Some experts classify silverfish as most destructive pest of stored food.  Have been found in un-opened food packages.

Reproduction:

Silverfish undergo love dances prior to mating. Males lay spermatophores, which are taken into the ovipositor of female specimens. Females lay clusters of up to 50 eggs.

Predators:

Centipedes, earwigs and spiders are known to feed on Silverfish.