
Community identification
Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva)
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Case: 8–10 mm; Larva: up to 10 mm
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, particularly in closets, drawers, and carpets where natural fibers are present.
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-rich materials including wool, fur, feathers, silk, and felted fabrics.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silken case or 'sleeve' covered in fiber fragments and drags it along while feeding. They are photophobic and prefer dark, undisturbed locations.
Risks & Benefits
No medical risk to humans; however, they are significant household pests that cause permanent damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets.