
Community identification
Carpet Beetle (Larva)
Anthrenus verbasci
- Order & Family
- Order Coleoptera; Family Dermestidae
- Size
- 1 mm to 5 mm in length
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.