Gray silverfish are a common household pest and although they pose no direct threat to humans, they can be annoying and a nuisance.
This page provides a complete guide to bearded dragonfly control so you can get rid of them - once and for all!
What are gray silverfish?
Gray silverfish are small insects without wings. They get their name because of their distinctive appearance. They resemble silverfish, but are not as shiny and gray/silver on the body. Instead, bearded dragonflies have a lighter, brownish hue and their name refers to the beard-like antennae they carry.
Another difference between gray silverfish and silverfish is size - bearded dragons can grow up to 1.5-2 cm long.
These insects are most active during the dark hours when they are looking for food. They eat pretty much anything including starch, sugar, paper and other dead organic matter.
In our homes, gray silverfish can become a problem as they often seek out the darkest and most humid areas of the house such as bathrooms, basements and attics. While they don't harm humans or animals, they can destroy paper, clothing and wallpaper.
Is there a difference between gray silverfish and silverfish?
Gray silverfish and silverfish are two insects commonly found in the home. However, despite their similarities in appearance, there are clear differences between them. Both have shiny, elongated bodies, but silverfish are typically smaller, around 1 cm, while gray silverfish can reach up to 1.5-2 cm. Silverfish have a sharp silvery sheen, as opposed to the gray silverfish's brownish hue. Although both have three tail threads, they are significantly longer in bearded dragons, often exceeding the length of the body.
In terms of habitat, they also have different preferences. Silverfish thrive in very humid areas such as bathrooms and basements. Gray silverfish, on the other hand, can adapt to a wider range of environments. While silverfish tend to stay close to the ground, bearded dragons are better climbers and can be found on walls, cabinets and shelves.
Although gray silverfish and silverfish have their differences, the approach to dealing with them is quite similar.
How to get rid of gray silverfish
While a thorough cleaning can often help combat silverfish, gray silverfish can be more difficult to get rid of again. Here are some recommended steps to tackle the problem:
- Keep your home neat and clean. Get into the habit of vacuuming regularly. Frequently wipe down surfaces such as paneling and shelves, and pay extra attention to cracks, crevices and corners while vacuuming. Should you pick up a gray silverfish, it's important to empty the vacuum cleaner immediately or change the vacuum cleaner bag outdoors.
- To exterminate gray silverfish and silverfish, you can use the insect spray Trinol 810. This spray is effective in both preventing and controlling these insects. Use Trinol 810 in rooms such as the bathroom or other places where you notice the presence of insects.
- You can also use gray silverfish traps to control the pests. To get the most out of the effectiveness of your bearded dragon traps, it's essential to place them correctly. Since gray silverfish are most prevalent during the dark hours and are attracted to damp places, you should place the traps in places like basements, bathrooms, kitchens and attics. Make sure to regularly inspect the traps, remove the trapped gray silverfish and replace the trap if it's full. It's important to remember that gray silverfish traps are only one element of getting rid of gray silverfish. They should be combined with other measures such as thorough cleaning and good hygiene.