
Community identification
Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order: Hemiptera, Family: Cimicidae
- Size
- 1 to 7 millimeters in length
Natural Habitat
Typically found in cracks and crevices in human dwellings, particularly in and around beds, mattresses, and furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Strictly hematophagous (blood-feeders), primarily targeting humans but also feeding on other warm-blooded animals.
Behavior Patterns
Mainly nocturnal; they hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult stages) and require occasional blood meals to molt and reproduce.
Risks & Benefits
Risk: Bites can cause itchy welts, allergic reactions, and psychological distress. While not known to transmit diseases, infestation can be difficult and costly to eradicate. Benefits: None to the human ecosystem.