Bed Bug

Human dwellings, particularly in cracks, crevices, mattress seams, bed frames, and furniture near sleeping areas.

Obligate hematophage (blood-feeder) that primarily feeds on human blood, but can also feed on other warm-blooded animals.

Strictly nocturnal, hiding during the day in dark, sheltered crevices and emerging at night to feed. Females lay hundreds of eggs over a lifetime, going through five nymphal stages before reaching adulthood.

Risks: Causing itchy bite marks, allergic reactions, secondary skin infections from scratching, sleep deprivation, and psychological distress. They are difficult to eradicate once an infestation establishes. Benefits: No notable ecological or human benefits.