
Community identification
Bed Bug (Early Stage Nymph)
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order Hemiptera; Family Cimicidae
- Size
- 1mm to 1.5mm for early-stage nymphs; adults reach 4mm to 5mm.
Natural Habitat
Found in indoor human environments, specifically in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas, including mattresses, bed frames, and furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophagous (feeds exclusively on blood), primarily from humans but also from other warm-blooded animals.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and elusive; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages, each requiring a blood meal to molt.
Risks & Benefits
No known ecosystem benefits. Risks include itchy bites, allergic reactions, psychological distress, and potential secondary skin infections from scratching. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans.