Community identification
Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Hemiptera / Cimicidae
- Size
- Approximately 4–5 mm long when adult; roughly the size of an apple seed.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in cracks and crevices of beds, upholstered furniture, and other areas near sleeping humans.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophages (blood feeders) that primarily feed on the blood of humans.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and elusive insects that emerge at night to feed. They go through five nymphal stages, each requiring a blood meal to molt.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include physical Reactions like itchy welts, skin rashes, and psychological distress. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans. There are no known benefits to humans or ecosystems.