
Community identification
Plaster Bagworm (Case-bearing Moth Larva)
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera; Family: Tineidae
- Size
- Case length usually 8–14 mm; larva inside is smaller.
Natural Habitat
Typically found on walls, floors, and under furniture inside houses, particularly in humid or subtropical climates.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on spiderwebs, wool, silk, hair, and other natural fibers or organic debris.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silk case covered in sand, soil, and debris. It can pull its head out of either end of the bulbous case to feed or move.
Risks & Benefits
They are considered minor household pests as they can damage silk or wool fabrics. They are not harmful to humans or pets but can be unsightly in large numbers.