Household Casebearer (often confused with Plaster Bagworm)
Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella (sometimes referred to as Phereoeca allutella in older texts)
Order & Family: Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae (Clothes Moths)
Size: Larval case is typically 8-13 mm long (approx. 0.3-0.5 inches)
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors in humid climates, often on walls, baseboards, and in corners of garages or bathrooms. They are common in tropical and subtropical regions like Florida.
Diet & Feeding
Detritivores feeding on old spider webs, wool, hair, dead insects, and general house dust. They rarely damage synthetic fibers but will eat natural fibers.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a flattened, pumpkin-seed-shaped case made of silk and debris (sand, dust, frass) which it carries around for protection. It has openings at both ends allowing it to feed and move from either direction. When ready to pupate, it attaches the case to a vertical surface.
Risks & Benefits
Generally considered a nuisance pest rather than a major threat. They do not bite or sting. While they can eat wool and natural fibers, they are less destructive than the Common Clothes Moth. Benefit: They clean up dead insects and old spider webs.
Identified on: 3/2/2026