Keratinophagy
Guides
Ceratophaga
Ceratophaga is a genus of moths in the family Tineidae containing 16 described species. The genus is notable for its highly specialized larval diet: keratin from solid animal tissues, primarily horns and hooves of ungulates. Twelve species occur in Africa, three in Asia, and one species, C. vicinella, is found in the southeastern United States where it feeds on gopher tortoise shells. The genus name derives from Greek words for 'horn' (kéras) and 'eater' (phágos).
Tinea dubiella
Buff Clothes Moth
Tinea dubiella is a small moth in the family Tineidae, commonly known as the Buff Clothes Moth. Native to Europe, it has established populations in New Zealand. Adults are nocturnal and active in mid-summer. The larvae feed on keratinous materials including wool, hides, furs, and feathers, and are often found in indoor environments such as barns and stables.