Bed Bug

Scientific Name: Cimex lectularius

Order & Family: Order Hemiptera; Family Cimicidae

Size: 4 mm to 7 mm (about the size of an apple seed)

Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

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

Diet & Feeding

Sanguivorous; they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and elusive; they are most active during the night and hide during the day. They go through five nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal between each molt.

Risks & Benefits

They do not transmit diseases, but their bites can cause allergic reactions, skin rashes, and psychological distress. They have no known benefits to the ecosystem.

Identified on: 12/31/2025