Carpet Beetle Larva

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family: Coleoptera, Dermestidae

Size: 4 mm to 5 mm (approx. 1/8 to 3/16 inches)

Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments like homes and warehouses, particularly in carpets, upholstery, and stored fabrics.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on natural fibers, animal by-products like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dried protein materials.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving, avoid light, and concentrate in dark areas where food is abundant. They undergo several molts before pupating into adults.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include damage to household textiles and potential allergic reactions (dermatitis) in humans caused by their bristly hairs. They offer no significant ecological benefits in a home setting.

Identified on: 1/13/2026