
Community identification
Casemaking clothes moth (larva)
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- 5 to 10 mm (larval case length)
Natural Habitat
Commonly found inside residential homes, specifically in dark areas like closets, drawers, and under carpets or rugs.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on keratin-containing animal products such as wool, fur, hair, feathers, felt, and silk.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs and lives inside a protective portable silken case incorporating fibers from its food source. They are often found climbing walls or hidden in debris.
Risks & Benefits
A significant residential pest that causes structural damage to clothing, upholstery, and textiles; they provide no significant benefits to human ecosystems.