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Pest Library · Crawling insectsSilverfish Identification Guide
How to identify silverfish and stop them from damaging books, papers and stored items.
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How to identify
What silverfish look like
Silverfish are wingless, teardrop-shaped insects with silvery scales and three long tail bristles. They move in a fish-like wiggle.
They prefer dark, humid places and feed on starches, paper, glue and fabrics.
Signs you have silverfish
- Silvery insects in tubs, sinks and basements
- Small holes or yellow stains on paper, books and wallpaper
- Tiny pepper-like droppings in stored boxes
Are they dangerous?
They do not bite or spread disease, but they can damage books, documents, photos and stored clothing.
How to prevent them
- Lower humidity with a dehumidifier
- Store papers and clothes in sealed plastic bins
- Seal cracks in baseboards and around pipes
Quick facts
Scientific nameLepisma saccharinum
Size12–19 mm
ColourSilvery-grey, metallic
Most activeYear-round indoors
Found inBathrooms, basements, stored paper
Risk levelLow (damage to paper and fabric)
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