Bug Identifier
Bed Bug
Community identification

Bed Bug

Cimex lectularius

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

Natural Habitat

Primarily indoor environments, specifically in localized cracks and crevices near human sleeping areas such as mattresses, bed frames, and baseboards.

Diet & Feeding

Obligatory hematophages, meaning they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal parasites that emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and are known for hitchhiking on luggage or clothing to spread.

Risks & Benefits

Significant public health pests that cause itchy welts, allergic reactions, and psychological distress/insomnia. They are not known to transmit diseases but are difficult and costly to eradicate.