Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family: Order Coleoptera; Family Dermestidae

Size: 1 mm to 5 mm in length

Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in carpets, upholstery, closets, and areas where lint, dust, and animal fibers accumulate.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, feathers, fur, leather, and dried organic materials including pet food and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light, often hiding in dark undisturbed areas. They undergo a complete metamorphosis with multiple larval molts before pupating into adult beetles.

Risks & Benefits

They are significant household pests that can damage clothing and textiles. While they do not bite humans, their bristly hairs can cause 'carpet beetle dermatitis' or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 1/10/2026