
Community identification
Cased-bearing clothes moth (larva case)
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Case is typically 5mm to 10mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Dark, undisturbed areas in homes such as closets, under furniture, and in storage bins containing natural fibers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on keratins found in natural animal fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair.
Behavior Patterns
The larva builds a portable silken case incorporating debris and fibers from its food source. It carries this case while feeding and eventually pupates within it.
Risks & Benefits
Significant indoor pest that can cause extensive damage to clothing, upholstery, rugs, and historical artifacts. They provide no direct benefit to human environments.