Bedbugs—what kind of insects are they? - briefly
«Cimex lectularius» is a small, wingless, hematophagous hemipteran of the family Cimicidae. It is nocturnal, reddish‑brown, and typically inhabits human sleeping environments.
Bedbugs—what kind of insects are they? - in detail
Bed bugs belong to the order Hemiptera, suborder Heteroptera, family Cimicidae, and the most common species affecting humans is Cimex lectularius. They are obligate hematophagous insects, feeding exclusively on the blood of warm‑blooded hosts.
Adult individuals measure 4–5 mm in length, exhibit a flattened, oval body, and display a reddish‑brown coloration that darkens after feeding. Wings are reduced to vestigial structures; locomotion relies on six legs equipped with adhesive pads for clinging to fabric and carpet fibers.
The life cycle comprises three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Females lay 1–5 eggs per day, embedding them in crevices. Eggs hatch in 6–10 days, releasing first‑instar nymphs. Nymphs undergo five molts before reaching maturity, each molt requiring a blood meal. Development time ranges from 4 weeks at 30 °C to several months at lower temperatures.
Feeding occurs primarily at night. Using a specialized proboscis, the insect pierces the skin, injects saliva containing anticoagulants and anesthetic compounds, and ingests blood within 5–10 minutes. Bites often produce erythematous macules, sometimes accompanied by pruritus or vesiculation.
Preferred habitats include seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, and cracks in furniture. Bed bugs disperse through passive transport on luggage, clothing, and secondhand items, enabling rapid colonization of new dwellings.
Health implications consist of cutaneous reactions, secondary infections from scratching, and psychological distress. No disease transmission has been confirmed, yet allergic sensitization may develop after repeated exposure.
Control strategies emphasize early detection, thorough cleaning, and integrated pest management. Mechanical methods involve vacuuming, steam treatment, and encasement of mattresses. Chemical options include residual insecticides, desiccant dusts, and growth‑regulating agents. Heat treatment at 50 °C for ≥ 30 minutes effectively eradicates all life stages. Coordination of multiple tactics yields the highest success rate.