Community identification
Plaster Case Bearer (or Household Casebearer)
Phereoeca uterella (or Phereoeca allutella)
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
- Size
- Case typically 8-13 mm in length; larva inside is smaller.
Natural Habitat
Found indoors on walls, especially in warm, humid climates; dwellings and outbuildings.
Diet & Feeding
The larva feeds on wool, hair, cobwebs, and dead insect remains.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silk case covered in sand or plaster dust that it carries while crawling; it can turn around inside the case to protrude from either end.
Risks & Benefits
A household pest that can damage natural fiber fabrics and carpets; harmless to humans and pets directly.