Community identification
Bed bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Hemiptera: Cimicidae
- Size
- 1mm to 7mm (nymphs are smaller and translucent, adults are larger and reddish-brown).
Natural Habitat
Human dwellings, primarily focusing around sleeping areas like mattresses, bed frames, and headboards.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophages; they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and elusive; they hide in cracks and crevices during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).
Risks & Benefits
Risks include itchy skin rashes, psychological distress, and allergic reactions. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans. There are no known benefits.