Occasional invader

Silver Fish

Lepisma saccharina

Wingless, moisture-loving insects commonly found in bathrooms, cupboards, libraries and storage areas.

Appearance

A tapered, silvery body covered with scales, long antennae and three tail-like filaments. Adults are usually about 10–15 mm long.

Fast-moving and mostly nocturnal, they hide in cracks and undisturbed humid spaces during the day.

Starches, paper sizing, glue, book bindings, wallpaper paste, textiles and small food residues.

Females place small eggs in protected cracks. Development is gradual and silverfish continue moulting throughout life.

Silvery insects, irregular surface grazing on paper, yellow staining, scales and small pepper-like droppings.

They do not bite or transmit disease, but may damage books, archives, wallpaper and stored fabrics.

Prevention

Confirm the organism before selecting control measures

Remove food, water and shelter where practical

Seal or manage access points and harbourage

Use monitoring and a site-specific IPM programme

Professional support

Arrange a site-specific assessment with PCAMB.