Silverfish Identification & Prevention
What are silverfish?
Silverfish are small insects known for their shiny exterior and how they move their bodies. These nuisance pests have a rounded head leading to a narrower body, tapering off to a pointed abdomen. Here are some basic characteristics to help you identify silverfish:
- Body - Narrow, elongated, oval body that is wingless and tear-shaped (looks like a segmented carrot)
- Appendages – Three long bristletails, six legs, and two antennae
- Color - silver-blue with a metallic shine
- Size – Measuring anywhere from ½ to 2 inches long
Along with their metallic shine, silverfish can run very fast. They move their strange oblong bodies like fish swimming through water. Where are they on their way to? Well, these pests seek food and water in our homes and businesses.
Are silverfish dangerous?
Silverfish cause problems by contaminating food and damaging books, wallpaper, stored clothes, and rugs. However, they are not a threat to people and are not known to spread diseases that make us ill.
Since silverfish have high moisture needs, their presence inside or near your home could be an indicator of a moisture problem that needs addressing.
Why do I have a silverfish problem?
Silverfish are able to survive for many weeks without food and water. If water is available, they can live for more than 300 days without food - making them a very difficult pest to control and eliminate.
If your yard or home provides silverfish with damp dark areas to live comfortably, water, and food, these insects won't hesitate to take advantage of the offerings.
When it becomes too hot and dry for silverfish outside, they move indoors, usually through cracks in the foundation, spaces under doors, vents, and drains.
They are also introduced into our homes in or on things. Silverfish move inside of structures on potted plants, cardboard boxes, newspapers, mail, and other things once kept outside or in damp storage areas like sheds or garages.
How do I get rid of silverfish?
Keep silverfish out of your home with the help of the professionals at Mission Pest Solutions. We will work with you to put into place the service needed to eliminate current problems with silverfish and prevent future problems with these nuisance pests.
Mission Pest Solutions has developed effective and modern treatments and techniques to ensure that your home becomes and stays free of pests. To learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest solutions to your silverfish problem, contact us today.
How can I prevent silverfish in the future?
If you’re wondering how to prevent silverfish activity around your home or business, keep in mind that they gravitate to moisture. Knowing that they depend on high humidity for their survival, one of the best things you can do is eliminate excess moisture around your property. Additionally, implementing more effective storage and cleanliness habits can also help minimize conducive conditions in your space. Here are some silverfish prevention tips to remember:
- Check packages and cardboard boxes before bringing them inside.
- Clean up and vacuum any particles of food or dust.
- Cover cracks, holes, and other openings.
- Eliminate any piles of wood or dead vegetation.
- Eliminate exposed piles of paper and cardboard boxes.
- Frequently dust around your property.
- Install a dehumidifier in moisture-rich areas.
- Keep your clothes stored in a dry area.
- Maintain proper ventilation around the home or business.
- Open windows and doors to rid the room of warmth and moisture.
- Reduce clutter and vacuum book bindings.
- Repair leaky fixtures such as faucets and pipes.
- Seal off cracks, crevices, and entry points.
- Store dry food in sealed containers in the cupboard.
- Store linens and other fabrics in sealed containers.
For complete protection against a silverfish infestation, the best thing to do is rely on a professional pest control company in Jacksonville. Call Mission Pest Solutions today to discuss your silverfish control and prevention needs.