Bug Identifier
Bed Bug
Community identification

Bed Bug

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Order Hemiptera; Family Cimicidae
Size
4 to 5 millimeters (adults)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Human dwellings, specifically sleeping areas, cracks, crevices, and mattress seams

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophages, primarily feeding on human blood

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive; they use heat and carbon dioxide to locate hosts, feed for 3-10 minutes, and then hide to digest and reproduce

Risks & Benefits

Cause itchy welts and psychological distress; they do not transmit diseases but can cause secondary skin infections from scratching