How long does a bedbug live? - briefly
Under normal indoor temperatures, a bed bug usually lives between six months and a year, while cooler conditions can extend its lifespan to roughly two years.
How long does a bedbug live? - in detail
The lifespan of a common bed bug extends from egg to death and varies with temperature, food availability, and humidity. An egg hatches in approximately five to ten days under typical indoor conditions. The emerging nymph passes through five instars, each requiring a blood meal before molting. Development from first‑instar nymph to mature adult generally takes four to six weeks when meals are frequent and ambient temperature stays between 21 °C and 29 °C (70 °F–85 °F).
Adult bed bugs can survive for many months without feeding. At moderate room temperatures, an unfed adult may live three to four months; under cooler conditions (below 15 °C/59 °F) survival extends to six months or longer. In warm environments (above 30 °C/86 °F) and with regular blood meals, adults typically live six to twelve months. Laboratory observations have recorded individuals persisting for up to 18 months when provided with periodic feeding.
Key factors influencing longevity include:
- Temperature: Higher temperatures accelerate metabolism and shorten the overall life cycle, while lower temperatures slow development and prolong adult survival.
- Feeding frequency: Access to a host reduces the period an adult can endure without nourishment; regular meals support a full year of life.
- Humidity: Moderate humidity (45‑55 %) favors egg viability and nymphal development; extreme dryness can increase mortality.
In summary, a bed bug’s total life expectancy ranges from roughly two months (in adverse conditions) to approximately one year under optimal indoor settings, with occasional reports of survival beyond that timeframe when environmental conditions are favorable.