Community identification
Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
- Size
- 4 to 5 mm (adults) and smaller (nymphs), roughly the size of an apple seed.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in urban dwellings, specifically in cracks and crevices such as bed frames, mattresses, and furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophages, meaning they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and elusive; they use heat and carbon dioxide sensors to find hosts, feed for 3–10 minutes, and then retreat to hide. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).
Risks & Benefits
They do not knownly transmit diseases, but their bites can cause allergic reactions, itchy welts, insomnia, and significant psychological distress. They have no environmental benefits.