Bed Bug (Early Stage Nymph)

Scientific Name: Cimex lectularius

Order & Family: Hemiptera: Cimicidae

Size: 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm (for early-stage nymphs, though the image shows a very small specimen consistent with this range).

Bed Bug (Early Stage Nymph)

Natural Habitat

Found in human dwellings, typically in mattress seams, bed frames, cracks, and crevices near sleeping areas.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophages, meaning they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages, each requiring a blood meal to molt.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy allergic reactions to bites, sleep deprivation, and psychological distress. While not known to transmit diseases, they are significant household pests that are difficult and expensive to eradicate.

Identified on: 5/16/2026