Bug Identifier
Bed Bug
Community identification

Bed Bug

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Order Hemiptera, Family Cimicidae
Size
4 to 5 mm (approx. size of an apple seed)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found globally in human dwellings, typically hiding in mattress seams, bed frames, cracks, and crevices near sleeping areas.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous (blood-eaters), primarily feeding on human blood, usually at night.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive; they are attracted to heat and carbon dioxide. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal to molt into each subsequent stage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy allergic reactions, skin rashes, and psychological distress/insomnia. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans. There are no ecological benefits in a domestic human environment.