Featured Creature: Silverfish

Silverfish are hardy little pests that most of us have had the misfortune to come across at some point or another. Their signature silvery grey color, along with their scaly bodies and fish-like appearance of their movements has earned them their name.

While silverfish are capable of thriving in most environments, they prefer to dwell in dark, damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, garages, and attics. Although they are considered medically harmless, they can contaminate food, damage paper goods, curtains and wallpaper, and stain clothing. They have similar habits to cockroaches.

Silverfish have mouthparts for chewing and they prefer carbohydrates and protein, such as dried meat, flour, rolled oats, and even glue! At times, they can be considered cannibalistic, as they have been known to eat skins off dead and injured individuals.

Silverfish are considered one of the earliest and most primitive insects, and they are also thought to be one of the first animals to colonize dry land. That may come as no surprise when you find out just how hardy these little critters are. They are extremely resistant to starvation and can survive without food and water for weeks.  Based on the results from an experiment performed in a laboratory, it was found that when kept inside a glass jar, one adult out of 20 survived for 307 days without food.

How can I prevent silverfish?

• Remove old books, magazines, and newspapers from your house.
• Store unused fabrics in sealed containers.
• Clean closets on a regular basis.
• Vacuum regularly and clean up spilled food immediately.
• Repair any plumbing leaks.

 For consistent silverfish exterminator solutions, contact Green Pest Solutions, your number one local pest and termite service. Or, if you have any questions regarding these pesky insects call in for a hassle free in-home evaluation.