Likely carpet beetle larva or shed larval skin
Anthrenus spp. (probable; identification uncertain from this close-up)
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera, family Dermestidae
- Size
- Larvae are typically 2–5 mm long; adults are about 2–4 mm.
Natural Habitat
Common indoors in carpets, upholstery, clothing, stored textiles, and lint-filled crevices; adults may occur on flowers outdoors.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae consume keratin-rich materials such as wool, fur, feathers, hair, and dead insects. Adults generally feed on pollen and nectar and do not damage fabrics.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae hide in dark, undisturbed areas and develop through several molts; their bristly hairs and cast skins often remain after feeding. Adults are small, oval beetles that may enter homes from outdoors.
Risks & Benefits
Larvae can damage natural-fiber clothing, carpets, and museum specimens, and their hairs may irritate skin or airways. They recycle animal-derived organic matter; adults provide minor pollination services.