
Community identification
Household Casebearer
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Larval case is about 9 to 14 millimeters long; adult wingspan reaches 10 to 13 millimeters.
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, typically found on walls, ceilings, and under furniture in warm climates.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on spider webs, hair, dust, wool, and other organic debris found in households.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae construct and constantly carry a flattened, silk case decorated with dust and debris, moving slowly along surfaces.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans, but the larvae can cause minor damage to woolens, silk fabrics, and carpets if left unchecked.