Bed Bug
Scientific Name: Cimex lectularius
Order & Family: Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
Size: Approximately 4 to 5 mm (size of an apple seed) for adults; nymphs are smaller and translucent.
Natural Habitat
Human dwellings, specifically cracks and crevices near sleeping areas such as mattresses, bed frames, headboards, and upholstered furniture.
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 (egg, nymph, adult) and require a blood meal to molt to the next stage.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include itchy skin rashes, psychological distress, and potential allergic reactions. While they are not known to transmit diseases to humans, infestations are difficult and expensive to eradicate. There are no known ecosystem benefits for this species in human environments.
Identified on: 3/13/2026