Characteristics

• Soft, elongate body tapering towards the abdomen and covered with silvery-grey scales;
• Small compound eyes, some species are eyeless;
• Wingless;
• Long antennae;
• Fish-like appearance;
• Up to 20mm long.

Habits

Silverfish have become common inhabitants of manmade dwellings and are often found in dark sheltered areas above the home, usually undisturbed places such as cupboards and bookshelves.

Silverfish feed on starches or polysaccharides, such as dextrin in adhesives.  These include glue, book bindings, paper and photos.  Other substances that may be eaten include cotton, linen, silk and synthetic fibres.