Abstract
In a very dry environment (0% r.h.) the case plays an important role in the physiology of the Tinea pellionella larva. Absence of the case leads to a reduction of oxygen consumption and a great loss of body water. At 0% r.h. the rate of water loss from a larva without its case, is twice that from a larva remaining within its case. In a very humid environment (r.h. higher than 95%) the case absorbs a very large quantity of water and becomes very heavy, but it does not interfere with larval physiology. With or without their cases the weight of the larvae stays stable, and their oxygen consumption does not change. When the humidity changes abruptly, the case acts as a buffer and assists in the regulation of the water balance of the larva. If the humidity decreases the case slows the rate of body water loss; if the humidity increases, it very quickly builds up a reserve of atmospheric water around the larva's body.
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