Silverfish (Lepisma saccharina)
Treatments for this pest are included in these services:
Learn About Silverfish in Arizona
Key to effective pest control for silverfish is correct identification, followed with an interior and exterior pest control application targeting silverfish in harboring and breeding areas. Responsible Pest Control offers effective pest control for silverfish and desert pests in Mesa & Greater Phoenix, AZ.
How To PRevent SilverFish in Arizona
- Moisture Elimination {This may include fixing leaky pipes.}
- Crack and Crevice Sealing
- Removing Food Sources {dead silverfish and paper collections}
- Vacuum
Arizona SILVERFISH IDENTIFICATION
Silverfish are considered just nuisance pests, because that pose no medical threat. Silverfish are an extremely common pest in the Phoenix Valley desert, and infest inside desert homes because they usually need humidity or moisture, but they can actually survive weeks without food or water. There are 3 different types of silverfish including: L. saccharina, Fourlined silverfish, and Grey silverfish.
L.saccharina feed on paper and paper glues, they love wall paper, and live anywhere through the house. They also feed on proteins for other dead silverfish and dried meat.
Fourlined silverfish live inside and outside. They infest through out homes, in basements, garages, and attics. Outside they infest mulch around the foundation.
Grey silverfish live throughout homes but do not live outside. They feed on papers made from plants, and animal carbs and proteins. They prefer to eat linen, but also feed on eat fake silk, rayon, and cottons. HVAC ducting is a preferred traveling are through which these silverfish spread. These silverfish thrive in dry and moist conditions.
- Silverfish coloring is silvery to brown.
- Silverfish have soft bodies that are covered with fine scales—like a fish.
- Adult silverfish get up to 3/4 inch long.
- Their bodies are elongated & oval in shape.
- Silverfish have two antennae.
SILVERFISH INFESTATION in Arizona
Silverfish infestations are often brought into a home via: cardboard boxes, books, and papers from an infested place. Silverfish roam looking for food and hide during the day in cracks and crevices. Silver fish breed in protected areas like: wall voids, under sub-floors and in attics, etc. An infestation of silverfish can damage:
- Book bindings
- Curtains
- Wallpaper
- can contaminate food.
FAQs About Silverfish in Arizona
What are silverfish, and why are they in my home?
Silverfish are small, wingless insects with silver, metallic bodies and a fish-like movement. They’re attracted to moisture, paper, and starchy materials, which is why they’re often found in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Are silverfish harmful to humans or pets?
Silverfish aren’t harmful to humans or pets and don’t bite or spread diseases. However, they can damage household items by feeding on paper, wallpaper, books, clothing, and pantry items.
Why do silverfish thrive in Arizona homes?
Although Arizona is dry, silverfish can thrive indoors due to the availability of humid areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens. They seek out moisture, warmth, and food sources, making homes with these conditions ideal for them.
How can I prevent silverfish from entering my home?
To prevent silverfish, reduce indoor humidity by fixing leaks and using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Regularly clean areas where they may find food, such as pantries and storage spaces, and seal cracks and crevices where they may enter.
When should I contact Responsible Pest and Scorpion Control for silverfish control?
If you notice recurring silverfish sightings or damage to household items, it’s time to call a professional. Responsible Pest and Scorpion Control can assess the situation, treat infested areas, and help implement preventive measures to keep silverfish out of your home.
