Which two insect groups feed on stored woolens?

• A. Bed bugs and carpet beetles
• B. Clothes moths and carpet beetles
• C. Termites and ants
• D. Spiders and mites

Answer: (B)

In stored woolens, the insects that actually feed on the animal fibers are clothes moths and carpet beetles. Clothes moths lay eggs, and their larvae feed on wool, fur, silk, and other natural fibers, often eating through fabrics and leaving holes as evidence. Carpet beetles have larvae that also chew on wool and other natural fibers, causing damage in closets or storage areas where woolen items are kept. These two groups are the typical culprits for fabric damage because they are adapted to digest keratin and other components of animal fibers.

Other pests listed don’t target stored woolen textiles in the same way. Bed bugs feed on blood, not fabrics. Termites and ants mainly attack wood and cellulose-containing materials. Spiders and mites have diets that don’t center on damaging stored woolen fabrics. Signs to look for include holes or worn areas in wool garments, larvae or shed skins, and, for clothes moths, silken webbing or tuber-like cases, while carpet beetles may leave tiny holes and coarse frass. Prevention includes cleaning and storing fabrics properly in sealed containers to limit access and reduce infestations.