What is a notable characteristic of the casemaking clothes moth?

What is a notable characteristic of the casemaking clothes moth?

• A. It creates large nests
• B. It spins a small silken case around its larva
• C. It is highly aggressive
• D. It only feeds on synthetic fibers

Answer: (B)

The notable characteristic of the casemaking clothes moth is that it spins a small silken case around its larva. This behavior is significant because the case offers protection to the developing larva as it feeds on natural fibers such as wool, fur, silk, and feathers. This unique larval case is often what makes them particularly problematic for clothing and fabric storage, as the larvae carry their case with them, making them more difficult to eliminate. The presence of these cases can indicate an infestation and serves as a clue for those trying to identify this particular pest. Other characteristics mentioned, like creating large nests or being aggressive, do not accurately describe the behavior of the casemaking clothes moth. Similarly, while they do feed on natural fibers, the statement that they only feed on synthetic fibers is incorrect, as they thrive primarily on organic materials.

The notable characteristic of the casemaking clothes moth is that it spins a small silken case around its larva. This behavior is significant because the case offers protection to the developing larva as it feeds on natural fibers such as wool, fur, silk, and feathers. This unique larval case is often what makes them particularly problematic for clothing and fabric storage, as the larvae carry their case with them, making them more difficult to eliminate. The presence of these cases can indicate an infestation and serves as a clue for those trying to identify this particular pest.

Other characteristics mentioned, like creating large nests or being aggressive, do not accurately describe the behavior of the casemaking clothes moth. Similarly, while they do feed on natural fibers, the statement that they only feed on synthetic fibers is incorrect, as they thrive primarily on organic materials.