Bug Identifier
Webbing clothes moth
Community identification

Webbing clothes moth

Tineola bisselliella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Tineidae
Size
Adults have a wingspan of 12-16 mm; body length is approximately 5-8 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, and storage chests.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on animal-based fibers containing keratin, such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are weak fliers and prefer darkness. Females lay 40-50 eggs near food sources; larvae spin silken tubes or mats while feeding. The life cycle can take between one month and two years depending on temperature and humidity.

Risks & Benefits

They are major household pests that cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, and upholstery. They pose no direct health risk to humans but can be economically destructive for textile preservation.