silverfish
(also known as ‘fishmoth’ , ‘urban silverfish’)
a kind of insect – wingless (without wings) – nocturnal (= active at night) – soft elongated silvery blue body with two long antennae, eight legs, long antenna-like organ on the tail; size: ½-1 inch long; feeds on things that contain starch, sugar, and the substance used in adhesives like synthetic glue (gum); lives for 2-8 years; about 370 species found all over the world
Special Features:
The silverfish get their name from the silvery blue body and the fish-like movements they have when they hurriedly crawl around!
The silverfish are an urban pest living in the homes and other buildings.
Luckily for people, only a few of the 370 species live in their homes and other buildings.
paper damaged by silverfish
Though not a very serious pest, the silverfish is a pest nonetheless, damaging things, such as paper, books, photos, clothes, and even leather goods!
Silverfish are not usually seen because they are very small, they live in dark and damp places – in the cracks, gaps, holes of the furniture or/and walls, mostly in kitchens and bathrooms, and they are nocturnal!
There are some species of silverfish without eyes!
One of the survival strategies of silverfish is that they can survive without eating for over a year!!
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About the Author:BC Kumar
BC Kumar, an English Language Teacher, taught in numerous countries including Ethiopia, Oman and India, shares his knowledge and passion for the English Language. Disclaimer: This is a free educational website and all content has been compiled by the author. All copyrights to images and videos belong to their respective owners.
