They are covered with shiny silver scales that give the body a metallic sheen. They are frequently found in sinks or bathtubs because they fall in seeking moisture and then cannot climb out. Silverfish are most active at night and run very swiftly with a wiggling motion that resembles the swimming action of a fish.
Firebrats are similar to silverfish in overall appearance but lack the silvery sheen.
The body color is gray or brown, usually with numerous dark markings that give a mottled appearance. Therefore, firebrats are more common in attics and around furnaces, ovens, and water heaters. Silverfish and firebrats are pests primarily because they are a nuisance and an annoyance. They may consume or stain foods, fabric, paper, books, or wallpaper. Damage to these items is significant, however, only in cases of very large infestations present over long periods of time.