Common Clothes Moth (Tineola bisselliella)
The common clothes moth is a member of the family of fungus moths. The larvae are a massive pest to fabrics and foodstuffs, most notably wool but also other natural and synthetic fibers.
butterfly-conservation.org
Scientific Classification
- Family: Tineidae
- Genus: Tineola
- Scientific Name: Tineola bisselliella
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
They are white, with the number of instars varying from specimen to specimen. Some have 5 instars, while others may go through as many as 45.
upload.wikimedia.org
Pupa
Pupation occurs inside a cocoon for 10-50 days.
Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.
Color and Appearance
Forewings: When the wings are opened, they are a pale ocherous yellow. This color remains visible when the wings are closed.
Hindwings: When the wings are opened, they are grey-ish white. When the wings are closed, the colors and patterns remain the same.
Average wingspan: 0.9-1.6 cm
Flight pattern: Erratic
Season: Spring
moth-prevention.com
Egg
Eggs are laid in clusters between 30 and 200 that adhere to surfaces with a gelatin-like glue.
Quick Facts
| Other Names | Webbing clothes moth, clothing moth |
| Distribution | Western Palearctic |
| Habitat | Dim or dark areas, such as attics, basements, and closets |
| Lifespan of Adults | 15-30 days |
| Host Plants | Cotton, furs, linen, silk, and wool fabrics |
| Adult Diet | Does not feed |
Did You Know
- Swedish entomologist Arvid David Hummel first described this species in 1823.
4.bp.blogspot.com
detia-degesch.de
biolib.cz
Scientific Classification
- Family: Tineidae
- Genus: Tineola
- Scientific Name: Tineola bisselliella
