What is a silverfish?

A silverfish is a small bluish-silver or brownish-gray insect measuring about 12 to 19 millimeters in length. They are common household pests and thrive in damp climates, such as bathrooms, attics, kitchens and laundry rooms, where they can reproduce very quickly and cause damage to clothing, wallpaper and books.

Silverfish are destructive to homes due to their feeding habits. They can eat anything from shampoo, linen, silk, the glue in books and are even found in unopened containers of food. Silverfish are shaped like teardrops, and are recognizable by the three long bristles coming from the rear of their body.