Adults lay eggs in cracks and crevices near food sources. Depending on species, adults lay 5-50 eggs per clutch. These eggs hatch into nymphs, which look like small adults. They molt several times during the nymph and adult stages and have been observed to shed their skins more than 30 times a year. Development time from egg to adult varies between the four house-dwelling species and is summarized in Table 1.
All stages have a similar diet.
Control Prevention Infestations usually start when infested materials are brought into the home. When possible, inspect and treat all boxes, furniture, cartons or other items that have been used or stored in infested areas. Caulking holes and cracks, which allow silverfish to enter from outside, will help prevent infestations. Reduce potential food sources by storing old books, papers, starched linens and cardboard boxes in sealed plastic containers. Lowering the humidity and temperature in a house will also help control silverfish, since they generally prefer high humidity and moderately high temperatures.