Photo By Kulac , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0-MIGRATED /Cropped and compressed from original
Buffalo carpet beetle
Anthrenus scrophulariae
A species of Carpet beetles, Also known as Marbled carpet beetle
The adult common carpet beetle varies from about 2.5 - 4 mm in length. The antennae have eleven segments, three of which form a club, and the eyes are notched at the front. The head is black but is largely concealed under the prothorax, which is also black, liberally speckled with white scales apart from a band in the centre. The elytra (wing cases) are black with orange or reddish scales near the midline and variable but symmetric patches of white scales elsewhere. As the beetle gets older, the scales tend to get rubbed off so the beetle changes in appearance. The small white eggs are laid in batches of 30 to 60 and have projections which help them to adhere to carpet fibres. The larvae are brown and moult five times before pupating; the final instar larva is hairy and larger than the adult beetle. Pupation takes place in the last larval skin.
General Info About Buffalo carpet beetle
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The Buffalo carpet beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
The Buffalo carpet beetle can bore into the wood and may damage its structure, or even harm the health of trees. Stay alert if you frequently observe it in your house.
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
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Life Cycle of Buffalo carpet beetle
Egg The egg of buffalo carpet beetle is small and oval, usually deposited in hidden areas near a food source. The color can vary from translucent to a pale white or yellowish hue.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of buffalo carpet beetle is worm-like, with a segmented body that’s lighter and gradually darkens with age. The larva continuously feeds and molts, increasing in size with each instar stage.
Pupal The larva of buffalo carpet beetle transforms into a pupa, encased in a cocoon-like structure, where it undergoes a considerable transformation. The pupa is initially soft but hardens and darkens over time.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult buffalo carpet beetle has hardened exoskeleton, distinct wing cases (elytra), and functional reproductive organs. Its coloration can be vibrant, and it actively seeks mates and disperses.
Predators of Adult Buffalo carpet beetle
Birds, rodents, reptiles, spiders, wasps
Interesting Facts About Buffalo carpet beetle
The larvae of buffalo carpet beetle are known as natural vacuum cleaners because they feed on a wide range of dead organic matter, including natural fibers and insect carcasses.
Scientific Classification of Buffalo carpet beetle
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Youth Habitat of Buffalo carpet beetle
Rotting and Decaying Matter, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, On and Within Other Organisms (Parasitic and Symbiotic Relationships)
Adult Habitat of Buffalo carpet beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
When is the Best Time to Observe Buffalo carpet beetle
The best time to find buffalo carpet beetle is during late spring to early summer when adults are most active. Larvae can be found year-round in the right conditions, mainly in dark, undisturbed areas.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Buffalo carpet beetle
Mild to warm temperatures with low wind conditions are optimal for finding adult buffalo carpet beetle, as they are more likely to be active and flying. Larvae prefer stable conditions, without extreme wet or dry.
How and Where Can You Find Buffalo carpet beetle at Different Life Stages
Larva Buffalo carpet beetle larvae are usually hidden within natural fibers or stored products. To find them, check in dark, secluded areas where organic materials are stored, such as wool, silk, or dried animal products.
Pupal Buffalo carpet beetle pupae are often found near their last feeding place. Look in similar locations as larvae, such as inside or under carpets, in clothes, or in cracks and crevices in pantries or closets.
Adult Buffalo carpet beetle adults are attracted to light and can fly. To find them, use light traps at night or check windowsills and screens. During the day, look around flowers and plants as they occasionally feed on pollen.
Are Buffalo carpet beetle harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Buffalo carpet beetle
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Textile Pest
Buffalo carpet beetle larvae can cause severe damage to items like woolens and furs. Proliferation in dark, undisturbed areas allows them to eat away fabrics, resulting in costly destruction to valuable garments and goods. This pest's secretive nature often leads to unnoticed damage until it is too late.