Carpet Beetle Larva (most likely Dermestidae family, possibly varied carpet beetle or black carpet beetle)
Scientific Name: Varied carpet beetle: 'Anthrenus verbasci', Black carpet beetle: 'Attagenus unicolor', or similar species within the 'Dermestidae' family
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae
Size: 1-5 mm. The larvae are typically small, up to 5mm in length, and are usually larger than the adult beetles.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, warehouses. They feed on natural fibers, upholstered furniture, carpets, wool, silks, stored food products, taxidermy, and dead insects.
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-based products (wool, silk, feathers, fur, leather), dried animal products (dead insects, dried meat), natural fibers, and stored food products (grains, cereals).
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are the damaging stage, often found in hidden areas. They prefer dark, undisturbed places. They undergo complete metamorphosis. The larval stage can last from several months to a year, depending on environmental conditions and food availability. They shed their skin (molt) multiple times, and these shed skins can be found near their feeding sites.
Risks & Benefits
Potential risks include significant damage to household items, clothing, carpets, and stored food. They do not bite or transmit diseases to humans. There are no direct benefits of their presence in human dwellings, but in nature, some Dermestid beetles can be beneficial as scavengers, breaking down organic matter.
Identified on: 10/31/2025