Carpet Beetle Larva
Anthrenus verbasci (commonly, though other Anthrenus or Attagenus species are possible)
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera (Beetles), Family: Dermestidae (Skin Beetles)
- Size
- Typically 2 to 5 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, drawers, under furniture, in carpets, baseboards, and storage boxes. In nature, they live in bird or insect nests.
Diet & Feeding
Scavengers that feed on natural fibers and protein-rich materials such as wool, fur, silk, leather, feathers, pet hair, dead insects, and dried food products.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae prefer dark, secluded places and move slowly. They cause damage by grazing on fabrics, leaving irregular holes. As they grow, they molt several times, leaving behind shed skins that look like hollow shells.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Major household pest that damages clothing, carpets, and upholstery; their bristly hairs (setae) can cause allergic skin reactions (dermatitis) in some people. Benefits: In nature, they are decomposers, helping break down dead animal matter.