Genus Anthrenus

Anthrenus Geoffroy 1762

18 spp. (incl. several adventive) in our area(1), ~200 in 10 subgenera total(2)

1.8‒4 mm(3)

Broad body covered with colored scales that often form patterns(3) (pattern variable but often diagnostic)

most spp. in semiarid regions of Eurasia and Africa; those found indoors are cosmopolitan(2)

abandoned nests of birds/mammals, old wasp nests; some spp. are common household pests. Adults visit flowers.

Adults mainly occur in spring (year round indoors)

larvae scavenge on fur, feathers, skin flakes, dead insects, etc. keratine- or chitin-rich materials; adults feed on pollen • materials consumed indoors include dry pet food, wool/fur articles, hair & skin flakes shed by people/pets and accumulated in the corners

Larva Pupa Adult emerging Adult

Larvae may damage wool, fur, feathers, and natural history collections. Control can be achieved by keeping home free of accumulated hair/dust, discarding infested items and properly storing vulnerable items. Store dry foods in glass or metal containers with tight-fitting lids. Mothballs and moth crystals are ineffective or carcinogenic.

Anthrenocerus australis is similar, but dorsum with hairs, not scales(5); destructive on wool