Bed Bug (Exuviae/Skin)

Dwellings where humans sleep, including mattresses, bed frames, floorboard cracks, and behind wallpaper.

Obligate hematophages, meaning they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.

Nocturnal and elusive. They undergo five nymphal stages, shedding their exoskeleton (exuviae) at each stage after a blood meal. They are attracted to heat and carbon dioxide.

Risks include itchy bites, allergic reactions, and psychological distress. They are not known to transmit diseases, but infestations can be difficult and expensive to eradicate. They provide no significant benefits to the ecosystem.