Carpet Beetle
Scientific Name: There are several species commonly referred to as carpet beetles, including Dermestes lardarius (Larder Beetle), Attagenus unicolor (Black Carpet Beetle), Anthrenus verbasci (Varied Carpet Beetle), and Trogoderma variabile (Warehouse Beetle). Given the image's resolution, a specific species cannot be definitively identified.
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae
Size: Adults typically range from 2-5 mm (0.08-0.2 inches) in length. Larvae can be up to 5-6 mm (0.2-0.24 inches) long.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, they are commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses, particularly in undisturbed areas like closets, attics, under carpets, or inside upholstered furniture. Outdoors, adults are found on flowers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dried animal products (e.g., dead insects, pet food, taxidermy). Adults feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are short-lived (a few weeks) and do not feed as they are focused on reproduction. Larvae are the damaging stage, as they feed on natural fibers. They are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas. Larval development depends on environmental conditions and food availability, ranging from months to over a year. Larvae are light-averse and hide in crevices or under furniture.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Carpet beetle larvae can cause significant damage to household items made of natural fibers, such as carpets, clothing, upholstery, and furs. They do not bite or transmit diseases to humans. Benefits: In natural ecosystems, some carpet beetle species play a role as scavengers, breaking down organic materials, but this is generally not applicable to the common household pests.
Identified on: 8/31/2025