
Community identification
Clothing Moth Larva
Tineola bisselliella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- 1 to 12 mm in length depending on age
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, particularly dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, chests, and under furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-rich animal fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather; they also consume lint and dust.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae spin silken tubes or mats for protection while feeding; they avoid light and are the stage responsible for structural damage to textiles.
Risks & Benefits
Significant risk of property damage to clothing and upholstery; no direct health risk to humans, but their presence can lead to costly repairs or replacements.