Bug Identifier
Bed Bug (nymph)
Community identification

Bed Bug (nymph)

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
Size
1.5 mm to 4.5 mm (nymph stage appearing brownish-red after feeding)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in close proximity to human sleeping areas, residing in mattress seams, bed frames, and furniture cracks.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous insects that feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive, they emerge at night to feed and hide during the day. Nymphs require a blood meal to progress through each of their five molting stages.

Risks & Benefits

Significant household pest; bites can cause itchy welts and psychological distress. While not known to transmit diseases, they are difficult to eradicate once established.