Household Casebearer

Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family: Lepidoptera: Tineidae

Size: Case typically 8–14 mm in length

Household Casebearer

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in humid climates. Found on walls, floors, and under furniture.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, hair, and organic debris.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a protective silk case flattened like a pumpkin seed and covered in sand or dust. It can retreat into the case from either end to avoid predators.

Risks & Benefits

Generally a nuisance pest; can cause minor damage to natural fiber textiles (wool, silk) but provides minor ecosystem benefit by consuming spider webs.

Identified on: 12/26/2025