Community identification
Common Clothes Moth (larva/case)
Tineola bisselliella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Larvae grow to approximately 10 mm (around 0.4 inches) in length.
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, specifically dark areas with natural fibers like closets, under furniture, and in carpets.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae consume keratin-based natural fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae often live within silken tubes or cases for protection while feeding; they avoid light and prefer undisturbed, dark areas during their developmental stages.
Risks & Benefits
They are a significant indoor pest that can cause extensive damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets; they provide no significant benefits to human environments.