Bug Identifier
Bed Bug (Nymph/Egg)
Community identification

Bed Bug (Nymph/Egg)

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Hemiptera: Cimicidae
Size
Nymphs: 1.5mm to 4.5mm; Adults: 5mm to 7mm; Eggs: ~1mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in human dwellings, typically in cracks and crevices of mattresses, bed frames, and furniture.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous (blood-feeders), primarily feeding on human blood during the night.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive; they hide during the day and are attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide produced by sleeping hosts. They undergo five nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal to progress to each next stage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy skin welts, allergic reactions, and psychological distress/insomnia. While they are not known to transmit diseases to humans, infestations are difficult and expensive to eradicate. They offer no ecological benefits to human environments.