description Common clothes moth Overview
The common clothes moth is Tineola bisselliella, a tineid moth described by Hummel in 1823 and also known as the webbing clothes moth. It is associated with human dwellings, but the damaging stage is the larva rather than the adult. Larvae digest keratin and can feed on wool clothing, upholstery, carpets, fur, hair, and other animal-based material, often living in a silken tube or webbing.
help Common clothes moth FAQ
What is the scientific name of the common clothes moth?
The common clothes moth is Tineola bisselliella. It is also called the webbing clothes moth.
Do adult common clothes moths damage clothing?
The damaging stage is the larva, not the adult moth. Larvae can feed on wool and other keratin-containing materials in homes.
Why can common clothes moth larvae eat wool?
Their larvae digest keratin, a protein found in animal hair and wool. This lets them damage natural-fiber clothing and household textiles.
Where are common clothes moths usually found?
Common clothes moths are associated with human dwellings. Their larvae may live in undisturbed wool clothing, carpets, upholstery, or other animal-based materials.
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