
Community identification
Clothes moth larva (likely)
Tineola bisselliella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera; Tineidae
- Size
- Larvae are typically 6–10 mm long; adults have a wingspan of about 9–16 mm.
Natural Habitat
Dark, undisturbed indoor areas such as closets, carpets, upholstered furniture, and stored textiles.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae consume keratin-containing materials, including wool, fur, feathers, hair, and natural-fiber textiles. Adults generally do not feed.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae avoid light and may live inside silken cases or webbing; they pupate near food sources. Adults are weak fliers and commonly hide in darkness.
Risks & Benefits
They can damage clothing, carpets, and other animal-derived fabrics but do not bite or transmit disease. They contribute modestly to decomposition of keratin-rich material.