Silverfish in Virginia
Silverfish contain enzymes in their gut that break down cellulose, allowing them to infest areas like bookcases, closets, and places with starch or dry foods. They are also attracted to organic materials such as wallpaper and fabric, which provide additional food sources. Both species are agile, moving quickly, and able to move sideways or jump when disturbed. Their flattened bodies enable them to hide in tiny cracks and crevices, including within narrow book bindings, loose book pages, and even in cardboard.
Silverfish Habitat
Silverfish feed on both carbohydrates and proteins and are known to be cannibalistic, consuming the cast skins of dead or injured members of their species. These insects are also drawn to starchy substances found in food, further expanding their range of potential food sources. As nocturnal creatures, they require humidity to survive and seek shelter during the day in damp areas such as laundry rooms, under kitchen and bathroom sinks, and in crawl spaces. These pests are especially destructive to paper, particularly those with a glazed finish, and are attracted to the sizing found in paper products, such as starch, dextrin, casein, gum, and glue.
Silverfish Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Silverfish lack wings and don’t fly to move around. Instead, they dart quickly in a fish-like manner. When disturbed, they quickly scurry to another hiding spot. While they do not bite or sting, they can cause serious damage to belongings and food. Their weak jaws scrape, leading to holes in fabric and clothes, and causing discoloration in books, paper, and wallpaper. Silverfish are also known to contaminate dry foods like cereals, flour, pasta, and pet food.
If silverfish have become a problem on your Virginia property, reach out to local exterminators for assistance.