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  • Tineidae

    fungus moths, tineid moths, clothes moths

    Tineidae is a large family of moths containing over 3,000 species across more than 300 genera. Members are commonly known as fungus moths or clothes moths, reflecting their diverse larval feeding habits. The family is notable for its unusual dietary breadth among Lepidoptera: most larvae feed on fungi, lichens, and detritus rather than living plants, though some species have adapted to keratin-based materials including stored fabrics, feathers, and even tortoise shells. Several species are significant household pests, while others play important roles in decomposition.