Tapestry Moth / Webbing Clothes Moth (Larva)
Scientific Name: Trichophaga tapetzella / Tineola bisselliella
Order & Family: Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size: Larvae are roughly 1 to 10 mm in length; adults have a wingspan of 12-16 mm.
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, and in storage bins containing fabrics.
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-rich animal fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather, as well as lint and dust containing hair.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae often live within silken tubes or cases as they feed on fabric. They are photophobic, preferring dark corners, and can spend months in the larval stage before pupating into small, buff-colored moths.
Risks & Benefits
They are major household pests that cause significant damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. They pose no direct health risk to humans but can destroy expensive natural fiber items.
Identified on: 12/31/2025