Carpet Beetle Larva (likely varied carpet beetle or black carpet beetle)
Scientific Name: Likely 'Anthrenus verbasci' (varied carpet beetle) or 'Attagenus unicolor' (black carpet beetle), exact species cannot be determined from this image.
Order & Family: Coleoptera, Dermestidae
Size: 2-5 mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, especially in areas with undisturbed natural fibers like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, blankets, and in cracks and crevices where pet hair and crumbs accumulate. Also found in attics, closets, and museum collections.
Diet & Feeding
Natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather), stored foods (grains, cereals), dead insects, pet hair, and lint. The larvae are the damaging stage.
Behavior Patterns
Carpet beetle larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas where food sources are plentiful. They are slow-moving and often roll into a 'C' shape when disturbed. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows. They are known for their ability to digest keratin, a protein found in hair, feathers, and skin.
Risks & Benefits
Potential risks include significant damage to natural fiber products like wool carpets, clothing, and upholstered furniture. They can also infest stored foods. Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions from bristles shed by the larvae. There are no notable benefits.
Identified on: 8/29/2025