
Community identification
Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
- Order & Family
- Order Hemiptera, Family Cimicidae
- Size
- 1 to 7 millimeters in length, depending on life stage and recent feeding.
Natural Habitat
Found in human dwellings, typically in mattress seams, bed frames, cracks, and crevices near sleeping areas.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophages, meaning they feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily humans.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal insects that emerge from hiding at night to feed. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages, each requiring a blood meal to molt.
Risks & Benefits
They are significant household pests that cause itchy welts, allergic reactions, and psychological distress. While not known to transmit diseases to humans, infestations are difficult and costly to eradicate.