Zebra Clothes Moth
Common NameZebra Clothes Moth
Scientific NameErechthias zebrina
FamilyTineidae
SubfamilyErechthiinae
Wingspan (mm)8
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white, black
HabitatIndoors (pantries, wardrobes), also natural environments feeding on decaying organic matter
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (worldwide)
Host Plantsdried plant matter, fungi, stored food products, animal products, detritus
Flight PeriodYear-round (especially indoors), multiple generations
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are polyphagous, feeding on various organic materials, often constructing a silken case or feeding concealed before pupating in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive zebra-like banding on the forewings, small size, and long, slender antennae. The head is often pale and somewhat shaggy.
Description
A small, slender moth characterized by its long antennae and forewings patterned with irregular dark brown to black bands and blotches on a pale greyish-white background, giving it a zebra-like appearance.
