What does the adult varied carpet beetle primarily feed on?

The adult varied carpet beetle primarily feeds on pollen. This dietary choice is significant because it reflects the beetle's natural behavior and life cycle needs. The adult beetles are often found in areas where flowering plants are present, as they seek out pollen to consume. This is a crucial part of their reproduction process, as they require nutrients obtained from pollen to lay eggs, which will hatch into larvae that can feed on a variety of materials, including animal fibers and stored food products.

While other options represent items that might be relevant to the habits or environmental encounters of various pests, they do not align with the specific feeding behavior of the adult varied carpet beetle. Understanding the correct dietary requirements of these beetles is essential for effective pest management and control strategies in structures, as knowing what they feed on can help in identifying the sources attracting them to indoor environments.