What's Eating Your Collection?

Anthrenocerus australis larva

Full grown larva

Larvae

Size: 0.5mm when first hatched to 5mm full grown

Shape: Oval, tapering at the rear end

Colour: Brown with dark bands of hair

Antennae: Not visible

Distinguishing features: Hairy, banded appearance with a slender brush of dark hairs at the rear end.  
Empty cast skins or moults are often found.

Very similar to the larvae of Anthrenus and apart from the slender brush at the back, they are very difficult to tell apart. They are very active and quick moving.

Larvae are pests of: Wool, fur, feathers, animal glue

These are common in Australia but rare in the UK.

Anthrenocerus larvae

Anthrenocerus australis larva

100%
Anthrenocerus larvae