Casemaking Clothes Moth Larva
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Order Lepidoptera, Family Tineidae
- Size
- Larvae are generally 6 to 10 mm in length; the silk case they carry is typically slightly larger than the larva itself.
Natural Habitat
Found indoors worldwide, specifically in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, underneath furniture, and in storage bins containing natural fibers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on keratin-containing animal products, including wool, silk, feathers, fur, hair, and leather. They do not consume synthetic fibers unless blended with natural ones.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a portable silken case incorporating fibers from the material it is feeding on, which it carries around for protection. They are photophobic (avoid light) and undergo complete metamorphosis, pupating inside their cases.
Risks & Benefits
Significant household pest that causes physical damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. They pose no direct health risk to humans but can be a major economic nuisance; they benefit the ecosystem by breaking down animal-based organic matter in nature.