Bug Identifier
Bed Bug
Community identification

Bed Bug

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Order Hemiptera, Family Cimicidae
Size
4 to 5 mm (adults), roughly the size of an apple seed.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

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

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous insects, primarily feeding on the blood of humans, though they may bite other mammals or birds.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal parasites that emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages, each requiring a blood meal to molt.

Risks & Benefits

Major household pest. While not known to transmit diseases, their bites cause allergic reactions, skin rashes, psychological distress, and insomnia. They offer no ecological benefits to humans.