
Community identification
Varied Carpet Beetle
Anthrenus verbasci
- Order & Family
- Order Coleoptera; Family Dermestidae
- Size
- 2 mm to 4 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Commonly found indoors in carpets, upholstery, woolens, and organic debris; outdoors they live on flowering plants.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae eat natural fibers such as wool, silk, feathers, and hair; adults feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows; larvae are slow-moving and prefer dark, undisturbed areas where they can feed on organic materials.
Risks & Benefits
A major household pest that can damage textiles and stored organic products; larvae hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.