Bug Identifier
Common Clothes Moth
Community identification

Common Clothes Moth

Tineola bisselliella

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size
Wingspan of 9 to 16 mm; body length approximately 6 to 8 mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly dark and undisturbed areas like closets, attics, and under rugs

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on animal-derived fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather containing keratin

Behavior Patterns

Adults are weak fliers that avoid light. Larvae spin silken tunnels or mats while feeding on clothing or upholstery

Risks & Benefits

No health risks to humans, but can cause significant economic damage to clothing, carpets, and heritage textile collections