Silverfish and Firebrats
Lepisma spp.; Ctenolepisma spp.; Thermobia spp.
Identification
- 1/2 - 3/4 inch long and have scales
- slender, wingless soft-bodied insects
- fire brats are brown or gray, and silverfish are shiny silver or pearl gray
- long antennae
- three long filaments off the back end
- very common in pest monitors
Nesting Habits
- females lay eggs in crevices, on cloth or buried in food or dust, usually around moist (moisture not always necessary), warm areas or paper products
- very common around vending machines, art rooms, libraries, or anywhere there is moisture, heat, and paper
- present in most buildings
Diet
- paper, fabrics, and similar materials
- glue or pastes in paper/books
- dead insects
Significance
- scrape surface of paper
IPM Recommendations
- Complete control is difficult.
- Reduce moisture by fixing leaky plumbing.
- Remove or store potential food sources in sealed containers.
- Vacuum regularly under vending machines and in cracks and crevices around vending machines, book shelving, etc.
- Seal all cracks and crevices in the above-mentioned areas.