
Community identification
Casemaking Clothes Moth (Larva)
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Larvae grow up to 10 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Dark, undisturbed areas in homes such as closets, basements, and under furniture
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-based materials including wool, fur, feathers, hair, and silk
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a portable silken case covered with debris and fibers from its food source, which it carries while crawling and eventually pupates inside
Risks & Benefits
A significant household pest that causes damage to natural textile fibers and historic artifacts; no health risk to humans but poses economic risks