
Community identification
Varied Carpet Beetle
Anthrenus verbasci
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
- Size
- Adults are approximately 1.7 to 3.5 mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas like under baseboards or in closets.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, hair, feathers, and dried protein-based animal products; adults feed on pollen/nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows; larvae are scavengers that undergo complex metamorphosis and avoid light.
Risks & Benefits
Can be a serious household pest by damaging fabrics, carpets, and upholstery; hairs on larvae can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in humans.