Silverfish and firebrat control

Silverfish and firebrats are wingless insects with flat and elongated bodies that taper off at the back end into three long thin appendages, or cerci. Some have eyes, whereas some species do not. Silverfish are identified by their silver coloured metallic scales. In contrast, the firebrats’ distinct feature is the scattering of brown scales over the body creating a patterned appearance. Mature silverfish and firebrats grow to approximately half an inch long.

Silverfish and firebrats are attracted to an accessible food source, as well as moist and dark places in which to hide. As a result, residences or commercial buildings are ideal habitats for these insects. Their small size allows them to slip through cracks and crevices of a building’s perimeter, or unknowingly carried inside on people or objects. Once inside, they travel across or through ceilings, walls, baseboards, floors, and other gaps in a building’s structure. They tend to stay concealed until an area is infested.

Silverfish and firebrats cause damage by consuming a variety of items inside a residence. These insects create small holes in the material they feed on and leave yellow stains on fabrics. They are opportunistic feeders that come out at night to scavenge for nearby food. Their diet consists of sugary or starchy food, other insects, and household material (e.g. paper-based products, adhesive material, fabrics), all of which are easily accessibly in an occupied residence or commercial building (e.g. offices, restaurants). Without silverfish extermination, populations will grow into an infestation and damages from their feeding activity will become more noticeable.

Silverfish and firebrats are not known to transmit diseases to humans and are considered a low health risk.

Silverfish and firebrats are found in moist, dark environments of a residence. However, silverfish prefer cooler, moist environments, whereas firebrats tend towards warmer, humid surroundings. These insects are commonly found in storage areas, such as closets, cabinets and bookshelves. Warmer areas harboring firebrats include bathrooms, attics, and places near furnaces, hot water pipes and insulation. Silverfish and firebrats tend to keep away from humans and are generally found hiding in locations away from regular human activities and disturbances.

Silverfish and firebrat feeding activities damage household objects and furnishings. A large insect population will lead to larger, more noticeable damage that may be costly to fix or replace.