Why Are Silverfish Harmful?
Silverfish are silver and grey in colour, with torpedo shaped bodies and they are approximately 12 millimetres in length. Silverfish also have no wings with two long antennae on their heads, with three at the rear end. Silverfish make short darting movements like a fish when disturbed, hence the name silverfish.
Harmful
Silverfish do not bite or sting, and they are not harmful to human or pet health and safety at any time. However, silverfish cause damage to food in pantries, clothing, wallpaper and books.
Diet
The silverfish diet consists of moulds, yarn, silk, starchy foods and damp wallpaper. Silverfish will also feed on glue, boxes, papers, book bindings and even starchy material and clothing.
Infestation
Signs of silverfish infestation include: sightings of silverfish skittering around in bath tubs and sinks, damp places that have the surface eaten away in irregular patches.
Prevention
Silverfish thrive in very damp and moist conditions and also poor hygiene areas. To prevent silverfish infestation, cure dampness and moist areas immediately. Use an insecticide dust that can be purchased at the nearest garden centre or do it yourself pest control.
Warning
Please note that the insecticides and do it yourself chemicals can be very hazardous to humans and their pets health. Please be sure to read all labels before using any chemicals.