
Community identification
Household Casebearer
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Order Lepidoptera, Family Tineidae
- Size
- Case length is typically 8 mm to 14 mm
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, particularly in humid climates. Often found on walls, under furniture, or in closets.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, hair, and various natural fibers.
Behavior Patterns
The larva builds a flattened, spindle-shaped case from silk and debris that it carries for protection. It can move by protruding its head and legs from either end of the case.
Risks & Benefits
Generally considered a minor household pest because they can damage silk or wool clothing and fabrics, but they do not pose any health risk to humans.