Definition

Noun 1. A species of clothes moth: Tinea pellionella is the scientific name for the casemaking clothes moth. It is a small, pale insect whose larvae are destructive pests, feeding on materials containing keratin such as wool, fur, and feathers.

Usage Notes

• This term is highly specific and technical. It is primarily used in scientific, entomological, or professional pest control contexts.
• In everyday language, people typically use the common name "casemaking clothes moth" or simply "clothes moth."

Examples

• Scientific Context:
  • The infestation was identified as being caused by Tinea pellionella.
  • Under the microscope, the distinguishing features of Tinea pellionella became clear.
• General/Descriptive Context:
  • Damage to the wool carpet was consistent with Tinea pellionella larvae.

Advanced Usage

• The defining behavioral characteristic of is that its larva constructs and lives within a portable case made from silk and fibers of its food material.
• It is often discussed in contrast to the webbing clothes moth (), which spins silk tunnels or sheets over the surface of the infested material instead of a portable case.

Variants and Related Words

• Casemaking clothes moth: The common English name for .
• Clothes moth: A general term for moths of the family Tineidae, which includes .
• Larva (plural: larvae): The immature, worm-like stage of the insect that causes the damage.

Synonyms

• Casemaking clothes moth
• Case-bearing clothes moth

Related Terms (Not Synonyms)

• Tineola bisselliella: The webbing clothes moth, a different but related pest species.
• Keratin: The protein found in animal fibers that these moth larvae consume.
• Pest: An organism harmful to humans or human concerns, such as stored fabrics.

Noun

1. the larvae live in tubes of its food material fastened with silk that it spins