Why can silverfish damage books, wallpaper, and fabrics?

Silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) are classified as apterygotes, a group of wingless insects. They are considered household pests because they feed on materials that contain high concentrations of starch.12

This dietary preference leads them to consume substances such as wallpaper paste, bookbindings, and various fabrics. By feeding on these materials, silverfish can cause significant damage to books and household items. If an infestation occurs, these insects can be managed through the use of insecticides.1