Small wingless insect commonly found in damp indoor areas.
Common Silverfish are small, wingless insects recognised by their silvery-grey colour, flattened bodies and distinctive fish-like movement. They thrive in warm, humid environments and are commonly found in bathrooms, laundries, kitchens, roof voids, cupboards and storage areas throughout Queensland homes. Silverfish feed on materials containing starch, cellulose and proteins, including paper, books, wallpaper, cardboard, clothing, photographs, glue and some food products. While they do not bite people or spread disease, they can cause considerable damage to valuable books, important documents, fabrics and stored belongings if left unchecked. Their nocturnal habits mean infestations often remain unnoticed until damage becomes apparent. Reducing moisture, improving ventilation and storing susceptible items in sealed containers can help discourage Silverfish activity. Where infestations become widespread or persistent, professional pest control provides targeted treatments that eliminate hidden populations and help prevent future infestations.
Silverfish species identified by distinct body striping.
The Four-Lined Silverfish is a less common species identified by the distinctive dark stripes running along its body. Like other Silverfish, it prefers warm, humid conditions and is most often found inside homes, offices, libraries and storage areas where moisture levels remain high. It feeds on paper products, cardboard, book bindings, wallpaper paste, fabrics and other materials containing starch or cellulose. Although Four-Lined Silverfish are harmless to people and pets, they can become destructive when large populations develop, particularly in areas where books, important documents or textiles are stored for extended periods. Homeowners often discover them beneath boxes, inside cupboards or around damp wall cavities during the night. Good housekeeping, reducing humidity and repairing water leaks help minimise suitable breeding conditions. Professional pest management is recommended where infestations continue despite moisture control and regular cleaning.
Common indoor pest that feeds on paper, fabrics, and starch materials.
Grey Silverfish are one of the most common indoor Silverfish species encountered throughout Queensland. They are nocturnal insects that hide during the day inside cracks, roof spaces, cupboards, wardrobes and other dark, sheltered locations before emerging at night to feed. Their diet includes paper, books, wallpaper, clothing, carpets, cardboard and food products containing starch or carbohydrates. Although they do not bite or pose a health risk, Grey Silverfish can cause ongoing damage to valuable household items, archived documents, photographs and natural fibre fabrics if infestations are allowed to grow. Damp conditions, poor ventilation and cluttered storage areas provide ideal environments for breeding and survival. Regular cleaning, moisture control and reducing hiding places can significantly reduce Silverfish activity. For persistent infestations, professional pest control offers effective long-term treatments that target both active insects and hidden harbourage areas, helping protect valuable belongings from further damage.
