
Community identification
Carpet Beetle (Larva)
Anthrenus verbasci
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
- Size
- 1 to 5 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments such as homes, warehouses, and museums; often found in carpets, upholstery, or near baseboards.
Diet & Feeding
Scavengers that feed on organic materials including wool, silk, fur, feathers, dead insects, hair, and dried food products.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are avoidant of light and prefer dark, secluded areas. They go through several molts before pupating and emerging as adults.
Risks & Benefits
Common household pests that can cause significant damage to fabrics and textiles. Some people may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation (carpet beetle dermatitis) from contact with larval hairs.