
Community identification
Case-bearing clothes moth larva
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera; Family: Tineidae
- Size
- Larvae are typically 6-10 mm long, housed in a silken case of similar length.
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, or rugs.
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-rich animal fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair; occasionally feeds on stored grains or spices.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae construct a portable protective case from silk and fibers from the material they are eating; they carry this case as they move and eventually pupate inside it.
Risks & Benefits
Risk: Serious pest that damages high-value textiles, clothing, and carpets. Benefit: Minor role in ecosystems by breaking down natural animal debris in the wild, but predominantly viewed as a household pest.