Bug Identifier
Bed Bug
Community identification

Bed Bug

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
Size
4 mm to 7 mm (about the size of an apple seed)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas, such as mattresses, box springs, and bed frames in human dwellings.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous (blood-feeders), primarily feeding on human blood during the night.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive; they use heat and carbon dioxide to locate hosts, then hide in dark, secluded spots during the day to digest and reproduce.

Risks & Benefits

While not known to transmit diseases, their bites can cause allergic reactions, skin rashes, and significant psychological distress; they serve no benefit to human ecosystems.