Bug Identifier
Bed Bug (Nymph/Juvinile)
Community identification

Bed Bug (Nymph/Juvinile)

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
Size
1.5 mm to 4.5 mm (depending on life stage)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, primarily in cracks and crevices of beds, upholstered furniture, and walls near sleeping areas.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophages; they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and secretive; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal to molt to the next stage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy skin rashes, psychological distress, and allergic reactions. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans. Benefits are none; they are considered a significant domestic pest.