
Community identification
Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva)
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Order Lepidoptera, Family Tineidae
- Size
- Case length typically ranges from 8mm to 12mm.
Natural Habitat
Commonly found in residential homes, warehouses, and locations where biological fibers are present.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on keratin-containing animal products such as wool, fur, feathers, hair, silk, and felted fabrics.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silken case covered in debris or fibers that it carries with it as it moves. They are often found on walls or ceilings as they search for a site to pupate.
Risks & Benefits
Benefit is decomposition of animal fibers in nature. Risk is significant damage to clothing, upholstery, carpets, and valuable textiles; they do not pose a direct health risk to humans.