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Carpet beetles are small insects that have very particular characteristics. It is common to find them in the home, especially in carpets, woolen clothes, or cereals. Although they are harmless to humans, they can sometimes become pests and cause damage to the home.
Carpet Beetle Characteristics
Carpet beetles belong to the Coleoptera family. Its scientific name is Anthrenus scrophulariae . They are characterized by being insects that feed on woolen carpets, rugs and other fabrics. They usually measure no more than 5 mm and are round in shape.
Size
Because of their tiny size, carpet beetles often go unnoticed in the home. There are different types of carpet beetles, which vary slightly in size and color. The common carpet beetle can fly and measures between 3mm and 5mm. Its body is round and greyish, and has yellow, brown and white scales. The larvae are elongated and hairy. They are generally brown and yellow in color.
Habitat
Carpet beetles mainly inhabit warm regions. They can be found in Europe, North America and the Middle East. At home, they live on upholstered objects such as sofas, cloth dolls, beads, rugs, closets, and woolen clothing.
Feeding
One of its most peculiar characteristics is its ability to digest keratin, a protein found in hair and skin. Carpet beetle larvae can feed on organic debris such as dander or dead skin, dead animals, dried plants, or clothing. They may also eat grains, spices, pet food, and books. They do not usually feed on artificial materials.
Lifecycle
Female carpet beetles lay 50 to 100 tiny eggs in sheltered sites near the food source. After 6 to 11 days, the larvae hatch. They feed on fluff, wool and organic remains. They can live from 200 to 600 days. Adult beetles can live for weeks or months. Unlike larvae, they are attracted to light, making them more visible and more exposed to predators.
How to get rid of carpet beetles
Unlike moths, carpet beetles are less obvious. They can cause great damage to woolen garments and other fabrics. Especially if their population increases rapidly, they can become a pest. To avoid having carpet beetles in your home or to eliminate them, it is necessary to take the following measures:
- Periodically inspect and thoroughly clean areas or objects where carpet beetles may live.
- Maintain the cleanliness of food storage places, such as pantries and cabinets.
- Store food, especially grains, in airtight plastic or glass containers.
- Regularly wash woolen clothes and blankets. Delicate garments can be taken to a dry cleaner.
- Store unused clothing in airtight bags or boxes.
- Vacuum upholstery and carpets regularly.
Likewise, there are chemical treatments to eliminate carpet beetles:
- Pesticides: such as permethrin and cyfluthrin.
- Baits: such as pheromone traps to attract adult beetles.
- Other Chemicals: Desiccants such as airgel and diatomite.
Bibliography
- Editorial team. insects . (2012). Spain. Libsa.
- House, P., Jones, O.; Stevens, I. Insect Pheromones and Their Use in Pest Control . (2004). Spain. Editorial Oikos Tau.
- McGavin, GC Insects, identification manual . (1999). Spain. Omega.
