
Community identification
Household Casebearer (Plaster Bagworm)
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Larval cases are typically 8–14 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Commonly found inside homes, particularly on walls in humid subtropical environments
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, hair, and natural fibers
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silk case covered with sand, dust, and debris. It can turn around inside the case to feed from either end.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans but can be a minor pest of household fabrics and natural fibers; they help clean up old spider webs.