Bed Bug

Scientific Name: Cimex lectularius

Order & Family: Order Hemiptera, Family Cimicidae

Size: 1 to 7 millimeters (about the size of an apple seed)

Bed Bug

Natural Habitat

Found in indoor human environments, primarily in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas such as mattresses, bed frames, and furniture.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous parasites that feed primarily on human blood, though they may also feed 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).

Risks & Benefits

Risks include itchy welts and psychological distress from infestations; they can cause allergic reactions but are not known to transmit diseases. No known benefits to humans.

Identified on: 5/2/2026