
Community identification
Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva)
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera; Family: Tineidae
- Size
- Larval case is usually 5mm to 10mm in length; adult wingspan is 9mm to 16mm.
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, under furniture, or rugs, particularly where hair, fur, or wool is present.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on keratin-containing animal products including wool, fur, feathers, hair, felt, and silk.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a portable silken case incorporating debris and fibers from its food source. It carries this case while feeding and eventually pupates within it. They avoid light and are most active in secluded spots.
Risks & Benefits
They are a significant domestic pest that causes permanent damage to clothing, upholstery, and stored textiles. They do not pose a direct health risk to humans but can be a nuisance and cause economic loss.