
Community identification
Household Casebearer (Plaster Bagworm)
Phereoeca utericella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Case length is typically 8 mm to 14 mm.
Natural Habitat
Commonly found in humid climates indoors on walls, under furniture, or on rug fibers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, hair, and various natural fibers.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silk case covered in sand, soil, and insect parts. It can retreat into the case at both ends and attaches itself to vertical surfaces during pupation.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans but can be a minor household pest if they feed on woolen fabrics or expensive rugs. They are efficient at cleaning up old spider webs.