How long does a bed bug that has fed on blood live? - briefly
Adult bed bugs typically survive two to four months after a blood meal, depending on temperature and humidity. In favorable conditions, their lifespan can extend up to a year.
How long does a bed bug that has fed on blood live? - in detail
A fed bed bug can survive for several months, with the exact duration depending on temperature, humidity, and food availability. After ingesting a blood meal, an adult female typically lives between 2 and 6 months, while males may survive slightly shorter periods, often 1.5 to 4 months. In cool environments (below 15 °C or 59 °F) metabolic rates drop, extending survival to up to a year without another feeding. Conversely, at temperatures above 30 °C (86 °F) and low humidity, the lifespan contracts to a few weeks after a single meal.
Key factors influencing post‑feeding longevity:
- Temperature: Optimal range 22‑25 °C (72‑77 °F) supports the longest adult life; extreme heat accelerates dehydration and mortality.
- Relative humidity: Levels above 60 % reduce water loss, allowing longer survival; dry conditions increase desiccation risk.
- Feeding frequency: Repeated blood meals replenish energy reserves, extending the adult phase; a single meal without subsequent access shortens life expectancy.
- Sex: Females require more blood for egg production, which can lengthen their adult stage when meals are regular; males lack this reproductive demand.
The life cycle stages also affect overall longevity. Eggs hatch in 4‑10 days, nymphs undergo five molts, each requiring a blood meal. If a nymph feeds and then experiences unfavorable conditions, it can enter a dormant state (diapause) and remain viable for several months before completing development.
In summary, a blood‑engorged adult typically endures from a few weeks to half a year, with potential extensions to a year under cool, humid conditions and limited feeding opportunities. Temperature and humidity are the primary environmental determinants of post‑meal survival.