
Community identification
Household Casebearer
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
- Size
- Cases are usually 8mm to 14mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Typically found inside houses, on walls, or under furniture where they can find dietary materials.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, hair, and spider webs, as well as organic debris.
Behavior Patterns
The larva lives inside a flattened, spindle-shaped silk case covered with debris. It can turn around inside the case to protrude its head from either end.
Risks & Benefits
Considered a minor household pest as they can damage clothes, carpets, and upholstery made from natural fibers.