
Community identification
Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order Hemiptera, Family Cimicidae
- Size
- 4–5 mm long (adults); nymphs are smaller and translucent-yellow.
Natural Habitat
Found globally in human dwellings, typically hiding in cracks, crevices, mattresses, bed frames, and furniture near sleeping areas.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophages; they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal pests that emerge at night to feed. They go through five nymphal stages, requiring a blood meal to molt to the next stage. They can survive months without feeding.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include itchy welts, allergic reactions, and psychological distress/insomnia. While they do not transmit diseases, infestations are difficult and expensive to eradicate. There are no ecological benefits to humans.