Bug Identifier
Carpet Beetle Larva
Community identification

Carpet Beetle Larva

Anthrenus verbasci (and related species)

Order & Family
Coleoptera: Dermestidae
Size
2mm to 5mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in dark areas like closets, under furniture, baseboards, and in stored natural fibers or pantries.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that consume organic materials including wool, silk, feathers, fur, dead insects, pet hair, and dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slowly mobile and covered in bristly hairs (setae). They undergo several molts and can survive for long periods without food while searching for organic snacks.

Risks & Benefits

They are household pests that can damage clothing, carpets, and upholstery. Their bristles can cause localized skin irritation or allergic reactions in some humans. They play a natural role in ecosystems as decomposers by breaking down animal remains.