
Community identification
Common Cloth Moth (Larva/Fiber residues)
Tineola bisselliella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera, Tineidae
- Size
- Larvae grow up to 12 mm; adults have a wingspan of 12-16 mm.
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, particularly dark, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, and storage bins where natural fibers are kept.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on keratin-containing animal fibers such as wool, fur, silk, feathers, and leather, as well as lint and dust containing hair.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae often live within silken tubes or mats they weave among the food source; adults are photophobic and prefer to crawl or fly in dark corners.
Risks & Benefits
Significant household pest that causes physical damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets; no direct health risk to humans but can be economically destructive.