
Community identification
Case-bearing Clothes Moth (larval case)
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Larval case is typically 6-10 mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, and under furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on keratin-containing animal products including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a portable silken case incorporating fibers from its food source. It carries this case while feeding and eventually pupates inside it.
Risks & Benefits
Significant pest of textiles and household goods. They cause physical damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. They do not bite humans or pets.