Case-bearing clothes moth (larva)

Widely distributed worldwide; commonly found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, or in storage bins where natural fibers are kept.

Larvae feed on keratins found in natural animal fibers such as wool, fur, hair, feathers, silk, and felt. They occasionally eat synthetic fabrics blended with natural fibers.

The larva constructs a portable silken case incorporating fibers from its food source, which it drags along as it moves. They prefer dark environments and avoid light. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).

No health risk to humans as they do not bite or sting. They are significant household pests that cause damage to clothing, carpets, and upholstery by chewing irregular holes. In the ecosystem, they help recycle keratin.