
Community identification
Carpet Beetle (Larva)
Anthrenus verbasci
- Order & Family
- Order Coleoptera; Family Dermestidae
- Size
- 1 to 4 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums, often in carpets, upholstery, clothing, and near baseboards.
Diet & Feeding
Scavengers that feed on dry animal products such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, pet food, and dead insects.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light; they can remain in the larval stage for several months to years depending on food availability and temperature.
Risks & Benefits
They are significant pests that damage household fabrics and stored goods; their hairs can cause allergic reactions (dermatitis) in some humans. No major ecosystem benefits in a domestic setting.