
Community identification
Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
- Size
- 1 to 7 millimeters
Natural Habitat
In and around human sleeping areas, including mattresses, bed frames, and cracks or crevices in walls.
Diet & Feeding
Strictly hematophagous (blood-feeding), primarily preferring human blood.
Behavior Patterns
Mainly nocturnal; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages, each requiring a blood meal to molt.
Risks & Benefits
They do not known to transmit diseases, but their bites can cause allergic reactions, skin rashes, and psychological distress. They are considered a significant household pest with no known ecosystem benefits.