Varied Carpet Beetle
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera (Beetles), Family: Dermestidae (Skin Beetles)
Size: Is typically 1.7 to 3.5 mm (adult); Larvae (pictured resemblance) are slightly longer, up to 4-5 mm.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, they are commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, in carpets, or baseboards. Outdoors, adult beetles are found on flowers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers and dead animal products (wool, fur, silk, feathers, leather, dead insects). Adults do not damage fabrics; they feed on flower pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
The image likely shows an adult or late-stage larva with its characteristic mottled brown, tan, and white scale pattern. They are attracted to light as adults but avoid it as larvae. They undergo complete metamorphosis.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: The larvae are a significant household pest, causing damage to clothes, carpets, and upholstery. The larval hairs (setae) can cause allergic skin reactions (carpet beetle dermatitis) in some people. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dead animal matter.
Identified on: 3/2/2026