Plaster Bagworms in the House: Causes and Identification

In this article, you will get to know about plaster bagworms, their description of plaster bagworms, identification of plaster bagworms, and others.

Keep reading to unveil everything you need to know about plaster bagworms in the house.

 

Untold Facts About Plaster Bagworms

 

The Psychidae (bagworm moths, or called bagworms or simply bagmoths) are a part of Lepidoptera (butterflies as well as moths).

The bagworm family is small, with around 1.350 species that are known.

The species of bagworms are widely distributed and some species of them, like those of snail case bagworm ( Apterona helicoidella) and others, in recent times, settled on continents that aren’t native.

Another term used for Psychidae includes “case moths” however this term is also used to describe case bearers (Coleophoridae).

These names refer to the behavior that caterpillars belonging to these two families that create small, protective cases in which they are hunkered down.

The bagworms are part of the superfamily Tineoidea which is a branch of Ditrysia (as are Gelechioidea which includes case-bearers).

This means that bagworms and the case bearers are the similar way to each concerning butterflies (Rhopalocera).

 

Read also: How to Get Rid of Plaster Bagworms

Description of Plaster Bagworms 

The caterpillar larvae from the Psychidae build cases from silk and other environmental substances like sand soil, lichen, or other plant materials.

The cases are attached to trees, rocks, or fences during rest, or in the pupa stage, but they are generally mobile.

The larvae of certain species feed on lichen while others are drawn to green leafy plants. In the majority of species females, adult females do not have wings and are thus difficult to recognize in a precise manner.

Case bearer cases tend to be smaller and less bulky, and are made of silk. Bagworm “bags” resemble caddisfly cases with their exterior appearance.

 

Read also: Mealworms: Food for Your Exotic Pet

 

Identification of Plaster Bagworms

Bagworm cases in some tropical species range in size from less than 1 cm to 15 cm.

Every species makes its case, making the case more helpful for identifying the species than the creature itself.

Cases in more primitive species are flatter. So many highly specialized species have a wider range of case size, shape, and composition, with cases typically trying to narrow on both ends.

The attachment compound used to connect the bag to the host plant or structure can be very strong and requires substantial force to remove it.

 

Picture of Plaster Bagworms

Below are pictures of plaster bagworms:

 

Read also: Cyzmic CS | How To Use

 

Where Am I Likely To Find Plaster Bagworms?

Inside, the plaster bagworms are usually observed hanging from the walls and ceilings of homes.

They are attracted to areas in your home that can access food. They have a love of stucco walls, cobwebs, and humid, hot environments.

 

Why Do I Have A Problem With Plaster Bagworms?

Plaster bagworms have been a concern in your house because they provide them with an environment that is safe and suitable to thrive and have the ability to access their preferred sources of food.

To stop the worms of plaster from settling inside your house, it’s essential to utilize air conditioners and dehumidifiers to lower the humidity levels.

Plaster bagworms love to feast upon dust, dirt, and spiderwebs. So, make sure to vacuum and clean often to eliminate these food sources common to your home.

Also, they feed off fabric made from natural fibers. Therefore, the storage of clothing and other fabric items in airtight, plastic containers rather than cardboard ones is essential.

 

Are Plaster Bagworms Dangerous?

Plaster bagworms aren’t considered harmful pests, however, they do cause damage.

The larval stage causes most of the destruction inside the home they have infested. The larva feeds upon and damages clothes, rugs, and other fabrics made from natural fibers.

In addition, they feed off the hair of humans dead insects, dead hair, and cobwebs.

 

Finally

At this point, you will know about plaster bagworms,  identification of plaster bagworms, description of bagworms, and more.

We assure you that after reading through this expert advice about plaster bagworms, you will exterminate any pests that are stubbornly present in your home or property.

Please feel free to share this pest tip and keep coming back to our website for additional do-it-yourself pest control instructions if you enjoy it.

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