Tineinae

Adults are generally small moths with wingspans typically under 20 mm. They often exhibit mottled gray, brown, or buff coloration with distinctive head tufts or erect scales. Many species have narrow, elongate forewings with reduced venation patterns. Larvae are characterized by a hardened head capsule, well-developed thoracic legs, and the presence of silk glands used for constructing portable cases or feeding shelters. Specific identification to genus or species usually requires examination of genitalia or larval case morphology.

Habitats vary widely by genus and species. Many occupy sheltered, dark environments including caves, animal burrows, bird nests, and human dwellings. Some species are found in forests where larvae feed on fungi or decaying plant material. Species associated with vertebrate nests or stored products occur in synanthropic settings.

Cosmopolitan distribution with species present on all continents except Antarctica. Individual species ranges vary from widespread to highly localized.

Highly variable across the subfamily. Some larvae feed on keratinous materials including wool, fur, feathers, and hair. Others consume fungi, lichens, detritus, or decaying plant matter. A few species have been documented feeding on stored food products.

Complete metamorphosis with egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Larvae typically construct silk cases or tubes that incorporate debris from the feeding substrate; these cases are carried during locomotion and serve as pupation shelters. Pupation occurs within the larval case.

Larvae are case-bearers, constructing portable silk shelters decorated with substrate particles. Adults are generally nocturnal or crepuscular, often remaining concealed in dark spaces during daylight hours. Some species are known to infest stored materials and can persist in indoor environments year-round.

Decomposers in natural ecosystems, contributing to breakdown of keratinous debris, fungi, and detritus. Some species serve as indicators of vertebrate nest presence or cave ecosystem health. Synanthropic species function as pests in human environments.

Several genera, notably Tinea and related taxa, contain significant textile pests whose larvae damage woolens, furs, and other animal-derived fabrics. Infestations in museums, households, and commercial storage facilities cause substantial economic damage. Some species also infest stored food products or bird nests in structures.

• NemapogoninaeAlso within Tineidae; distinguished by larval habits often involving fungi and different case construction patterns.
• ScardiinaeTineidae subfamily with larvae that typically feed on lichens and algae rather than keratinous materials.
• MyrmecozelinaeTineidae subfamily containing ant-associated species with specialized ecological relationships not typical of Tineinae.

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• A New Species of Niditinea (Tineidae: Tineinae) with a Preference for Bird Nests, and the Known Larval Habitats of the Species in the United States