
Community identification
Bed Bug (Nymph phase)
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Hemiptera / Cimicidae
- Size
- 1.5 mm to 4.5 mm (nymphs are smaller and translucent/yellowish until fed)
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, specifically within human dwellings. They hide in cracks, crevices, mattress seams, and upholstered furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophagous; they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and elusive. They are attracted to heat and carbon dioxide. After feeding, they retreat to dark hiding spots to digest and molt. Their life cycle involves five nymphal stages, each requiring a blood meal to progress.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Causes itchy, red welts; can lead to secondary skin infections from scratching and significant psychological distress/insomnia. No known ecological benefits to human health; they are considered a domestic pest.