Household Casebearer (Case-bearing Clothes Moth larva)

Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family: Lepidoptera: Tineidae

Size: Case length: 8-14mm; Larva: 6-10mm

Household Casebearer (Case-bearing Clothes Moth larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in warm, humid climates; often found on walls, under furniture, or in closets.

Diet & Feeding

Scavenges on organic fibers including wool, silk, hair, cobwebs, and dead insect remains.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae construct a protective silk case covered in dust and sand. They are known for their 'dual-ended' case which allows the larva to turn around inside and protrude its head from either end to feed or move.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a household pest as they can damage natural fiber clothing and textiles; they pose no direct health risk to humans but indicate a need for cleaning or humidity control.

Identified on: 12/28/2025