Bed Bug

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

Obligate hematophages (blood-eaters), primarily feeding on human blood, though they may feed on other warm-blooded animals.

Nocturnal parasites that emerge at night to feed. They go through five nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal to molt at each stage. They are flattened to hide in tight spaces.

Risks include itchy allergic reactions to bites, skin infections from scratching, and significant psychological distress or insomnia. Not known to transmit diseases to humans. There are no known ecological benefits to their presence in human homes.