
Community identification
Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order Hemiptera, Family Cimicidae
- Size
- 4 to 5 mm (approx. size of an apple seed)
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.