Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Hemiptera (order), Cimicidae (family)
- Size
- 4-5 mm (adults), about the size of an apple seed
Natural Habitat
Primarily indoor environments where humans sleep or rest, such as beds, mattresses, bed frames, furniture, and cracks in walls. They thrive in temperate climates.
Diet & Feeding
Blood (hematophagous)
Behavior Patterns
They are nocturnal and typically hide in cracks and crevices during the day. They feed on blood, primarily from humans, but also from other warm-blooded animals. Their bites are often painless at first but can develop into itchy welts. Can be very difficult to eradicate once established. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans.
Risks & Benefits
Potential risks include itchy bites, allergic reactions, secondary skin infections from scratching, and psychological distress from infestations. They are not known to transmit diseases. There are no known direct benefits to humans or the ecosystem.