Silverfish are wingless, fast-moving insects with a distinctive tapered shape and silvery scales. They favor dark, damp spaces such as basements, bathrooms, and closets, and feed on materials containing starch or cellulose — including book bindings, wallpaper glue, and cardboard.
While they do not bite or spread disease, silverfish can damage stored paper goods, wallpaper, and fabrics over time. Reducing humidity with dehumidifiers or ventilation and removing clutter in storage areas are the most effective long-term prevention steps.