Silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) Biology and treatments
Silverfish
Silverfish are 10-20 mm long, are wingless and have a elongated tapered body with distinctive bristles at the end. They have long antennae and are covered in silvery scales, which gives them a metallic appearance. They are nocturnal and are scavenging insects, residing in cracks and crevices under tiles, frames, floor boards etc. Infestations are a sign of dampness as they prefer to live in areas such as bathrooms and in kitchens near sink units.
Control methods
Silverfish elimination is quite straightforward. An effective approach is combatting dampness, as they can not survive in a dry environment. Electrical heaters and dehumidifiers, in addition to adequate ventilation are good for removing excess dampness. A good non-toxic alternative we might employ is the use of diatomaceous earth in cracks and crevices. This is a good desiccant and will kill any that come into contact with this powder. Alternatively we can apply residual insecticides in cracks and crevices were they reside.