Carpet Beetle
Scientific Name: Dermestes lardarius (Larder Beetle) or varieties within the Dermestidae family, such as Anthrenus verbasci (Varied Carpet Beetle) or Attagenus unicolor (Black Carpet Beetle). Due to the image resolution, a precise species identification is not possible.
Order & Family: Coleoptera, Dermestidae
Size: Typically 2-5 millimeters in length.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, they are commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses, particularly in areas with natural fibers like carpets, rugs, clothing, and upholstered furniture. Outdoors, adults can be found in flowers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dried animal products. They can damage carpets, clothing, upholstery, and stored food items. Adult carpet beetles feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Carpet beetles often lay eggs in dark, undisturbed areas where food sources (like natural fibers) are abundant. Larvae (wool worms) cause the damage as they feed on keratin-rich materials. Adults are typically attracted to light and are good flyers, sometimes found near windows. They are known for 'playing dead' when disturbed.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Can cause significant damage to household items made of natural fibers, leading to economic loss. Some people may experience allergic reactions to the larval hairs. Benefits: Some species are used in museums to clean skeletons, and they play a role in decomposition in nature.
Identified on: 8/11/2025