Carpet Beetle Larva (possibly Black Carpet Beetle)
Scientific Name: Anthrenus scrophulariae (or other Dermestidae species)
Order & Family: Coleoptera, Dermestidae
Size: Typically 2-5 mm in length, varying by species and developmental stage. The object in the image appears very small, possibly representing a very young larva or frass.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, in undisturbed areas like under carpets, rugs, furniture, closets, and in stored food products. They feed on natural fibers, human hair, dead insects, animal products, and pantry items.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous scavengers, feeding on a wide variety of dried animal and plant products. This includes wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, pet food, cereals, pasta, and dead insects.
Behavior Patterns
Carpet beetle larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas. They molt multiple times, shedding their characteristic bristly skins. Adults are often found outdoors feeding on pollen and nectar but lay eggs indoors. The visible object appears to be a small, dark, oval shape, which could potentially be a carpet beetle larva, or even their fecal pellets (frass) which are often dark and oval. It is difficult to definitively confirm it as a living insect from the image.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include significant damage to natural fiber products like carpets, clothing, and upholstery. They can also contaminate stored food. Some individuals may experience skin irritation from contact with their bristles. They offer minimal benefits in domestic settings beyond being part of the natural decomposition process if found outdoors.
Identified on: 9/5/2025