
Community identification
Webbing clothes moth (larval casing/damage)
Tineola bisselliella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Larvae grow up to 12 mm; adults have a wingspan of 9-16 mm.
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, particularly dark, undisturbed areas like closets, storage chests, and behind furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Animal-based fibers containing keratin, such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather, as well as lint and dust.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae spin silken tunnels or mats while feeding. They avoid light (lucifugous) and are often found in the crevices of fabrics. Adults do not feed and are weak fliers.
Risks & Benefits
Significant pests that cause expensive damage to clothing, carpets, and upholstery. They provide no economic benefit to humans but assist in decomposing animal matter in nature.