
Community identification
Case-bearing clothes moth larva
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
- Size
- Case length: 8-10 mm; Larva: approx. 7 mm
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, particularly in closets, drawers, or storage areas where wool, fur, or silk are kept.
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-rich animal fibers such as wool, fur, silk, feathers, and felt; occasionally dried animal or plant matter.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae construct a portable silken case incorporating fibers from their food source and carry it while feeding. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult) and prefer dark, undisturbed locations.
Risks & Benefits
Risk: Agricultural and household pest that significant damages carpets, clothing, and upholstery. Benefit: In the wild, they act as decomposers of animal remains (feathers and fur).