What is the principal need of fabric pests?

Fabric pests, such as moths and carpet beetles, primarily require protein for their growth and development. This protein is crucial as it is found in animal-based materials, particularly keratin, which is a structural protein present in hair, fur, feathers, and other similar substances. These pests are often drawn to fabrics that contain these proteins, such as wool, silk, and leather.

While carbohydrates, fats, and sugars can be important energy sources for many organisms, fabric pests specifically target protein sources to facilitate their life cycle, including reproduction and larval growth. This protein-centric diet addresses their physiological needs and helps them thrive in environments where these food sources are available.