Bed Bug (Cast Skin)

Indoor environments, found in cracks, crevices, mattresses, and furniture near sleeping areas.

Obligate hematophages; both nymphs and adults feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.

Nocturnal and elusive; nymphs must molt five times before reaching maturity, leaving behind translucent exuviae (cast skins) like the one pictured after each blood meal.

Risks include itchy skin rashes, psychological distress, and potential allergic reactions; they are considered a significant public health pest but are not known to transmit diseases.