Carpet beetle (likely larval stage)
Anthrenus scrophulariae (varies by species, common example)
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera, Dermestidae
- Size
- Larvae can range from 1-5 mm in length; adults are typically 2-4 mm.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, especially in areas with organic fibers like carpets, rugs, furniture, animal products (wool, fur, feathers), and food storage areas.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers, animal products, dead insects, pet hair, and food crumbs. Adults typically feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.
Behavior Patterns
The larval stage is the destructive stage, causing damage to natural fibers. Larvae are often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and hairy. Adults are attracted to light and may fly into homes from outdoors. They undergo complete metamorphosis.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, and museum specimens. Potential skin irritation or allergic reactions from larval hairs in sensitive individuals (carpet beetle dermatitis). No known benefits to humans indoors, though adults are pollinators outdoors.