
Community identification
Household Casebearer
Phereoca uterella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera, Tineidae
- Size
- Case length 8-14 mm (0.3-0.5 inches)
Natural Habitat
Warm, humid environments; commonly found inside houses on walls or floors
Diet & Feeding
In the larval stage, they eat spider silk, hair, wool, and other natural fibers
Behavior Patterns
The larva builds a flattened, silken case covered in sand or dust and can extend its head from either end to move or feed
Risks & Benefits
Considered a minor household pest as they can damage silk or wool clothing, but they are harmless to humans