Bed Bug (Nymph Stage)
Scientific Name: Cimex lectularius
Order & Family: Hemiptera (Order), Cimicidae (Family)
Size: 1.5 mm to 4.5 mm (Adults are larger, nymphs like the one imaged are translucent/tan and smaller, often 1-3mm).
Natural Habitat
Exclusively indoors close to human hosts; typically found in mattresses (seams and piping), box springs, bed frames, furniture cracks, wallpaper seams, and electrical outlets.
Diet & Feeding
Hematophagous (solely feeds on the blood of warm-blooded animals), preferring humans.
Behavior Patterns
They are cryptic, nocturnal ectoparasites. They hide during the day in tight crevices and emerge at night attracted by CO2 and body heat to feed. They undergo 5 nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal to molt into the next stage.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Major nuisance pest; bites cause itching, welts, allergic reactions, and significant psychological distress/insomnia. They are difficult to eradicate. Benefits: None known for humans or common ecosystems.
Identified on: 2/27/2026