Fish moths

Silverfish are a species of small, wingless insects. They're commonly called silverfish. When these insects crawl across the floor, it's sometimes hard to see their thin, light-coloured legs and appendages. This makes them look like little silver fish swimming on land.

Found in dark, humid areas, silverfish can be a pest in the home. They get their name from their colour (a silvery, grey shade) and from their fish-like movements. They are often called fish moths.

Silverfish are not harmful to humans, but they can be devastating to books, old papers, wallpaper, carpets, and clothes. They also love to make unsealed cereal, pasta, and oat packets their home.

If you see any yellow stains on clothing made from synthetic fabrics, small holes in your paper or wallpaper, and droppings, you probably have a silverfish infestation.

  • Expert Advice

    EXPERT ADVICE

    Keep silverfish away by keeping cupboards and drawers dust-free and using a vacuum cleaner to suck up any dirt in these areas and wipe them down. Once cleaned, allow them to air out as fish moths are attracted to dampness.

  • Fun Facts

    SILVERFISH ARE PREHISTORIC

    Silverfish are one of the oldest insects in the world, with the first silverfish appearing over 400 million years ago. They have been around before dinosaurs even existed.

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