Bug Identifier
Mexican Bed Bug (Common Bed Bug)
Community identification

Mexican Bed Bug (Common Bed Bug)

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Hemiptera: Cimicidae
Size
5 to 7 mm in length (adults)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, specifically in crevices of mattresses, bed frames, and furniture near sleeping areas.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous (blood-fed), primarily feeding on human blood during the night.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive; they use heat and carbon dioxide to locate hosts, feed for 3-10 minutes, and kemudian retreat to hide.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy welts, allergic reactions, and psychological distress; they are not known vectors of disease, but infestations require professional treatment.