Plaster bagworms and household casebearers
Kamitetep is at the forefront of etymological confusion. The moth species is in the family Tineidae, and is known officially as Phereoeca uterella. But they are commonly known as plaster bagworms and household casebearers. However, some experts claim that household casebearers are actually “Phereoeca allutella,” a completely different moth family from plaster bagworms. No matter the opinion, no one wants to find these moths setting up shop in their living space.
Kamitetep and their cases
Ironically, kamitetep is more known for its larval stage than its adult moth stage. This is when they appear in gray, flat cocoon-like cases that the caterpillars carry around as a shield while they look for food. When it’s time, the caterpillar uses it as a pupal case while transforming into a fully-grown winged moth, explains EDIS. People may realize they have a bug problem after finding one of these cases with the developing moth inside. Or they may find it eerily empty. The cases camouflage well in gardens, making them harder to spot early.
