Bug Identifier
Common Clothes Moth
Community identification

Common Clothes Moth

Tineola bisselliella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Tineidae
Size
5 mm to 8 mm in length with a wingspan of approximately 12 mm to 15 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, specifically dark areas such as closets, wardrobes, and storage bins. They are ubiquitous in residential buildings worldwide.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on keratin-containing animal fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather. Adults do not eat.

Behavior Patterns

They are nocturnal and avoid light. The larvae create silken tunnels or mats while feeding. The life cycle varies from a few months to a year depending on temperature and food availability.

Risks & Benefits

They are a significant domestic pest, causing irreversible damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. They pose no direct health risk to humans but can create substantial economic loss.