Case-bearing Clothes Moth

Scientific Name: Tinea pellionella

Order & Family: Lepidoptera (Moths and Butterflies), Tineidae (Fungus Moths)

Size: Larvae can grow up to 10-15 mm long. Adult moths have a wingspan of 9-16 mm.

Case-bearing Clothes Moth

Natural Habitat

Primarily found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, attics, storage areas, and under furniture. They thrive in environments with natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and lint. They are known pests of carpets, clothing, and upholstered furniture.

Behavior Patterns

Case-bearing clothes moth larvae construct a silk case that they carry with them, adding to it as they grow. They are slow-moving and generally prefer dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are poor fliers and tend to run or hop.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to natural fiber textiles, clothing, and carpets due to larval feeding. They do not bite or transmit diseases. There are no known direct benefits to humans, although they are part of the natural decomposition process of organic materials.

Identified on: 8/27/2025