Common Leaf Case Moth
Common NameCommon Leaf Case Moth
Scientific NamePhereoeca uterella
FamilyTineidae
SubfamilyTineinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, orange, transparent
HabitatUrban environments, homes, subtropical/tropical forests, caves
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan in tropical and subtropical regions, including North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Host Plantsdetritus, spiderwebs, animal fibers, wool, hair, dried insects
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates; warmer months in temperate regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are known for constructing a distinctive flattened, silken case covered with detritus, which they carry around as they feed. Pupation occurs within this protective case.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive flattened, seed-shaped larval case made of silk and debris. Adults have clear wings, a fuzzy black body, a banded black and yellow abdomen, and prominent orange antennae.
Description
A small moth with a fuzzy black head and thorax, prominent orange antennae, and a segmented abdomen banded with black and yellow. Its wings are mostly transparent with dark veins.
