
Community identification
Bed Bug (Infestation Sign)
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
- Size
- 1mm to 7mm (eggs to adults)
Natural Habitat
Human dwellings, specifically cracks and crevices near sleeping areas such as mattresses, bed frames, and furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Obligatory hematophagous; they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and elusive; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. The image shows dark spots which are typical fecal spotting (digested blood) left on linens.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include allergic reactions to bites, secondary skin infections from scratching, and significant psychological distress; they are not known to transmit diseases to humans.