Bug Identifier
Bed Bug
Community identification

Bed Bug

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.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.