We here at Pest-A-Tac Ltd have noticed a signification rise in the presence of Silverfish in Ireland. The main areas we have noticed these changes include Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Limerick, Tipperary and Dublin. The small wingless insect can do a large amount of damage in a relatively short period of time within the home or business. These invertebrates can damage books, files or plaster board or anything containing cellulose or starch. These not so nice visitors are commonly found in dark moist areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.
They are described as being silvery blue in colour with tiny scales on the body and three bristles at the end of the body with two antenna like bristles to the front. Silverfish are nocturnal insects averaging 12- 24mm long. Their abdomen taper to the end giving a fish like appearance. The newly hatched are typically whitish in colour however they do develop a greyish blue metallic shine as they grow in age. They have two long cerci and one terminal filament at the tip of the abdomen between the cerci. They also have two very small compound eyes. Their wingless movement requires a movement which is said to resemble a fish. This coupled with the scaly appearance inspire the name. The average silverfish may live between two to eight years.
Silverfish can become a big problem very fast and can be difficult to target without the correct knowledge and products. These invertebrates can lay up to 20eggs a day in the right conditions. Eggs will be almost impossible to find as they will be hidden in small cracks and crevasses.
A few tips to help prevent silverfish would be to regularly hoover your home to avoid debris and dust build up. Keep the place clear of clutter build up. Using a dehumidifier or well ventilating your home will also prevent the right conditions for silverfish to thrive. Seal up food containers especially dried foods such as pastas, cereals, rice and sugar. As we mentioned previous well ventilating your home will reduce the humidity it holds.
Pestatac.ie is a pest control agency servicing all areas of Cork, Limerick, Waterford, Galway & Dublin. Contact Pest Atac today to get a free consultation, and we will see how best to deal with your pest problem.