
Community identification
Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
- Size
- 4 to 7 mm (approximately the size of an apple seed) when fully grown.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas, such as mattress seams, bed frames, behind baseboards, and in upholstered furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophages, meaning they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal insects that emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult). They are known for hitchhiking on luggage, clothing, and used furniture to move between locations.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include itchy red welts, allergic reactions, and psychological stress. While they do not typically transmit diseases to humans, infestations are difficult to eradicate. They provide no known benefits to the human ecosystem.