
Community identification
Bed Bug (Crushed)
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
- Size
- 1 to 7 millimeters (about the size of an apple seed)
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, primarily in cracks and crevices near human sleeping areas such as mattresses, box springs, and bed frames.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophagous (feeds exclusively on blood), primarily from humans but also from other warm-blooded animals.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal, cryptic insects that hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. Their life cycle involves five nymphal stages, each requiring a blood meal to molt.
Risks & Benefits
Risk: Causes itchy, red welts and potential psychological distress or allergic reactions; while they carry pathogens, they are not known to transmit diseases to humans. Benefit: None to humans or the domestic ecosystem.