Bed Bug (Crushed)

Scientific Name: Cimex lectularius

Order & Family: Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae

Size: 1 to 7 millimeters (about the size of an apple seed)

Bed Bug (Crushed)

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.

Identified on: 3/26/2026