
Community identification
Cloth Moth Larva
Tineola bisselliella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Up to 12 mm (larvae)
Natural Habitat
Dark, undisturbed areas in homes, such as closets, drawers, and under furniture, specifically on animal-fiber materials.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on keratin-containing animal fibers including wool, fur, silk, feathers, and leather.
Behavior Patterns
They are photophobic (avoid light), often spin silken tunnels or mats for protection while feeding, and progress through several larval molts over 1 to 29 months depending on conditions.
Risks & Benefits
A significant domestic pest that causes irreparable damage to clothing, carpets, and upholstery; they provide no significant benefits to human ecosystems.