
Community identification
Bed Bug (or Flea evidence)
Cimex lectularius (Bed Bug) / Ctenocephalides felis (Cat Flea)
- Order & Family
- Hemiptera: Cimicidae / Siphonaptera: Pulicidae
- Size
- 1.5 mm to 5 mm (adults)
Natural Habitat
Indoors near sleeping areas, mattresses, furniture seams, carpet fibers, and pet bedding
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophages feeding exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals including humans, dogs, and cats
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal parasites that hide in dark crevices during the day and emerge at night to feed. The image shows small brownish specks along with dark smeared spots typical of digested blood fecal stains on tissue or fabric.
Risks & Benefits
Causes itchy welts, skin irritation, allergic reactions, and emotional distress. Fleas can transmit tapeworms or bacteria, while bed bugs do not typically transmit diseases but cause severe household infestations requiring professional extermination.