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Image Credit: Nancy C. from TX
Image Credit: Paula G. from Arlington, VA
Image Credit: Ping R. from NJ
The multicolored Varied Carpet Beetle is a tiny indoor anomaly that is often seen on furniture, curtains and carpet.
Adults can be found outdoors where they feed on pollen from a variety of flowers. Their larvae, however, can become pests inside homes as well as in universities. They feed on many household items: clothing made from natural fibers (wool, silk, cotton), carpets (hence their name), linens (tablecloths, napkins, curtains), woolen items (rugs, sweaters, socks) and even breakfast cereal. Larvae prefer eating dead bugs and spiders. Because of this, Varied Carpet Beetle larvae have decimated specimen collections in stored in many science departments and museums.
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci
Size (Adult; Length): 2mm to 4mm (0.08in to 0.16in)
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Antennae: Beetles have a pair of antennae on the head used as sensors.
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and mandibles (jaws).
Thorax: Holds the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
Elytron: One of two wing cases on a Beetle that protects its wings (plural: elytra).
Wings: Appendages used for flying and kept under the elytra until needed.
Abdomen: Houses organs related to circulation, reproduction, and excretion.
Legs: Beetles have three pairs of legs located at the thorax, numbering six legs in all.