
Community identification
Clothing Moth Larva (or Plaster/Household Casebearer)
Tineola bisselliella (or Phereoeca uterella)
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
- Size
- 1/4 to 1/2 inch (roughly 7-12mm)
Natural Habitat
Dark, undisturbed indoor areas such as closets, wardrobes, under furniture, or rugs, particularly in humid environments.
Diet & Feeding
Natural fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair. They consume keratin, a protein found in these animal-based materials.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae weave protective silken tubes or cases, often incorporating debris or fabric fibers. They are photophobic (avoid light) and crawl slowly. Adults do not eat; only the larval stage causes damage.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Significant damage to clothing, carpets, and upholstery. No direct health risk to humans, but can cause economic loss. Benefits: In the ecosystem, they help decompose animal-based organic matter like hair and feathers.