Are Silverfish in Australia a Dangerous Insect?

Silverfish, also known as Lepisma saccharina, are a type of bugs that look a lot like earwig bugs. They have fine scales on their bodies, as well as slippery and slipper-like appendages.

Although they have a wingless structure, silverfish are nocturnal insects that live in moist and dark areas. Their life cycle includes a number of moults.

After a few months, the eggs hatch. They are oval-shaped, 0.8 millimetres long, and are laid in cracks and crevices. It is common for silverfish to lay their eggs between clothes and other items.

When the eggs hatch, the nymphs develop a metallic shine and begin to moult. They will eventually become adults. Adults are about 15 mm long, with a tapered body and long tail filaments.

In the wild, silverfish eat protein-rich foods, such as flour, sugar, and glue. However, they can cause considerable damage to materials and household objects by consuming paper, fabric, cardboard, and other decomposing materials.

A silverfish infestation is not only damaging to the environment, but it can also lead to illness. If you are having problems with these tiny insects, you may want to contact a pest management company.

You can prevent an outbreak by keeping your home clean. If you have spilt food, be sure to wash it and store it in airtight containers. Also, avoid leaving damp clothes in your closet.

To keep your home free of silverfish, inspect your belongings regularly. Check books, paper, bookshelves, and clothing for signs of infestation.