Bug Identifier
Bed Bug
Community identification

Bed Bug

Cimex lectularius

Order & Family
Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
Size
4 to 5 millimeters (similar to the size of an apple seed) for adults.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, primarily in cracks and crevices near human sleeping areas like mattresses, bed frames, and headboards.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous (blood-feeders), typically feeding on the blood of humans or other warm-blooded animals.

Behavior Patterns

Mainly nocturnal; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis, passing through five nymphal stages that each require a blood meal to molt.

Risks & Benefits

They do not transmit diseases but their bites can cause itchy red welts, allergic reactions, and secondary skin infections from scratching. They are significant household pests that cause psychological distress and sleep deprivation.