 Ever caught sight of the sleek aerodynamic body, the way they hug the road, the time tested high speeds, and the metallic shine, of the Lepisma Saccharina. No, not this year’s latest automotive pearl we’ve been anxiously awaiting. I am speaking of “Silverfish”. These quick, flat, silvery, elusive creatures get their names from their color and the manner in which they move which resembles the way a fish swims. They are nocturnal and can typically live up to seven years if undetected. Silverfish are considered a nuisance pest inside the home, and thrive in higher temperatures between 75 to 90 degrees but they do require a fair amount of moisture. They live on a diet of carbohydrates such as attic insulation, cardboard boxes, cereal boxes, book binding, clothing, tapestries, carpet, even hair and dandruff. Silverfish can live beyond a year without eating and during times when food is hard to find they will eat dead insects, leatherwear, synthetic fabrics and even their own molted exo-skeleton. Yuck! Well now that you know what they look like and what they like to munch on it’s time to reclaim those attics, sinks and closets. Check leaky faucets, and dehumidify overly moist areas since they don’t survive in dry environments. You can try using a desiccant which is a solid substance that works to absorb moisture. You know, similar to those packs found in shoe boxes and medicine jars. Dehumidifiers work great and can be used year round. You will also have success using DEKKO Silverfish Packs which contain 20% Boric acid. Ask your pest control provider for them or stop by Pest Solutions on Shortcut Hwy to pick some up. Simply place near the infestation, but out of reach of children and pets. Make sure to swap them out every 3 months. We love to collect and store items and that’s just fine, however make sure that whenever possible toss out the cardboard containers and use tightly sealed plastic receptacles instead. Don’t forget cereals and other dry good items too. Vacuum in cracks and crevices to collect dust, debris and old dead bugs. Stay vigilant and before you know it you will have eliminated silverfish from your home. ** |
