How long do bedbugs live in general? - briefly
Adult bedbugs typically survive six months to a year, depending on temperature and food availability, while nymphs may live up to several months. They can endure months without a blood meal, extending their overall lifespan under adverse conditions.
How long do bedbugs live in general? - in detail
Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) typically survive between six months and one year under normal household conditions. Adults may live longer when temperatures remain moderate (20–25 °C) and food sources are regularly available. In cooler environments, metabolic rates decline, extending survival to up to 18 months; in hot, dry settings, individuals may die within a few weeks.
The insect’s life cycle comprises five nymphal instars before reaching adulthood. Each molt requires a blood meal, and the interval between feedings ranges from several days to weeks, depending on temperature and host availability. A well‑fed adult can endure several months without another meal, whereas a starved adult may persist for up to a year.
Key factors influencing longevity include:
- Ambient temperature: optimal range prolongs life; extreme heat or cold accelerates mortality.
- Humidity: low moisture levels increase desiccation risk; moderate humidity supports longer survival.
- Access to blood meals: regular feeding shortens the interval between molts and extends adult lifespan.
- Genetic strain and pesticide exposure: resistant populations may exhibit altered life‑span dynamics.
Maximum recorded lifespan for a bed bug under laboratory conditions approaches two years, achieved with constant optimal temperature, humidity, and periodic feeding. In real‑world infestations, most individuals die within a year if deprived of hosts or exposed to unfavorable environmental conditions.