
Community identification
Varied Carpet Beetle
Anthrenus verbasci
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
- Size
- 1.7 to 3.5 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found globally in homes, museums, and warehouses; often discovered on windowsills, in carpets, under furniture, or near natural fiber textiles.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dead insects; adults feed on pollen and nectar from flowers.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are attracted to light and often fly toward windows; larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas where they can feed on organic material.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans (though larval hairs can cause allergic skin reactions in some); considered a household pest due to potential damage to clothing, carpets, and stored fabrics.