Bug Identifier
Bed Bug
Community identification

Bed Bug

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Hemiptera: Cimicidae
Size
4 to 5 millimeters in length (approx. size of an apple seed)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Cracks and crevices in bedrooms, including bed frames, mattresses, and soft furniture

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagy (feeds exclusively on blood, typically from humans)

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They go through five nymphal stages before reaching adulthood.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risk consists of itchy welts and psychological distress; they do not transmit diseases but can cause secondary infections from scratching.