
Community identification
Casemaking Clothes Moth (larval case)
Tineola bisselliella / Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
- Size
- Case length: 6mm - 10mm (1/4 to 3/8 inch)
Natural Habitat
Dark, undisturbed indoor areas such as closets, drawers, attics, and behind baseboards.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on keratin-rich animal fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae spin a protective silken tube or 'case' that they carry with them while feeding. They are photophobic and prefer dark environments.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Destructive household pest that causes physical damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. Benefits: No direct benefit to humans; in the wild, they help decompose animal remains like feathers and fur.