Bed bug exuviae (shed skin/molt)

Human dwellings, specifically cracks and crevices near sleeping areas such as mattresses, bed frames, and baseboards.

Obligate hematophages (blood-feeders), primarily feeding on human blood.

Nocturnal and elusive; bed bugs undergo five nymphal stages, shedding their skin (molting) after each successful blood meal to progress to the next stage.

No known ecosystem benefits. Risks include itchy skin welts, allergic reactions, psychological distress, and secondary skin infections from scratching. They are not known to transmit diseases.