
Community identification
Household Casebearer (Plaster Bagworm)
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Order Lepidoptera, Family Tineidae
- Size
- Case is typically 8–14 mm long; the larva inside is smaller.
Natural Habitat
Found indoors in houses or other buildings, especially in humid or tropical climates; often seen on walls, ceilings, and under furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, hair, and biological debris such as dead insects and lint.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silk case covered in sand, dust, and lint. It can turn around inside the case to protrude its head from either end for mobility and feeding.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans and pets, but can be a minor household pest if they damage wool clothing or silks. They play a small role in cleaning up organic debris and spider webs.