
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)
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.