It gets its name, “silverfish,” from the color of its body and probably because it moves so gracefully that it almost looks as if it’s “swimming” along. Other names include silver arrow, silver moth, siller, bench herring, and night creeper. The name “night creeper” fits well, as it is extremely light-shy and only emerges from its hiding place once it has grown dark.
Silverfish are often seen around bathtub and sink drains or around floor drains, leading many to believe that they enter through the water in drain pipes. However, this is a misconception. They find their food in the deposits that form under drain traps and grates. Silverfish grow to 10–15 millimeters and live for 2–4 years.
Tips for Avoiding Silverfish Problems
Here are some tips and advice on what you can do to keep silverfish out of your home:
- Keep the room dry; that's the most effective way to prevent silverfish in your home.
- Cleanliness is key. Regular cleaning reduces the insect's food supply.
- Seal cracks and crevices to make it harder for silverfish to thrive.
- Don't leave books, papers, or clothes lying on the floor for long periods of time.
Did you know that about silverfish?
- Has existed for 300 million years
- Belongs to the order of silver-bristled tailed birds
- Found all over the world, with approximately 370 species
- There are two species in Sweden—the silverfish and the oven beetle
(Source: Anticimex)