
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.
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.