
Community identification
Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Hemiptera: Cimicidae
- Size
- 4 mm to 7 mm (about the size of an apple seed)
Natural Habitat
Found globally indoors, specifically in close proximity to human sleeping areas such as mattresses, bed frames, and upholstered furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophagous (feeds exclusively on blood), primarily from humans but will also bite other warm-blooded animals.
Behavior Patterns
Mainly nocturnal; they hide in cracks and crevices during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).
Risks & Benefits
Risks include itchy allergic reactions to bites, sleep deprivation, and psychological distress. While they do not transmit diseases, infestations are difficult to eradicate and require professional pest control.