Clothing or Textile Fibers

Scientific Name: N/A (Inanimate objects)

Order & Family: N/A (Man-made or processed protein/plant fibers)

Size: Varies; typically micrometers in diameter to several millimeters in length.

Clothing or Textile Fibers

Natural Habitat

Found on various fabric surfaces, clothing, upholstery, and carpets due to friction and wear.

Diet & Feeding

Inanimate; do not consume nutrients and have no metabolism.

Behavior Patterns

Fibers accumulate as 'lint' or 'pilling' on fabrics. They do not exhibit movement, growth, or reproduction, although they may appear to move slightly due to air currents or static electricity.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless debris. Some individuals may experience skin irritation from specific synthetic fibers. In some contexts, they are useful in forensic science for tracing contact between objects.

Identified on: 1/2/2026