
Community identification
Bed Bug Shells/Casings
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
- Size
- 1.5 mm to 7 mm depending on life stage
Natural Habitat
Found indoors near sleeping or resting areas, such as mattress seams, bed frames, floorboards, and electrical outlets.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophages; they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans. The pictured objects are discarded exoskeletons from nymphs after feeding and growing.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and elusive. Nymphs must shed their skin (molt) five times before becoming adults, leaving behind these translucent, brownish casings. They aggregate in tight crevices after feeding.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include itchy skin welts, allergic reactions, and psychological distress. While they do not transmit diseases, infestations are difficult and costly to eradicate.