How long does a small bedbug live? - briefly
A juvenile bed bug typically survives for two to six months, with longevity increasing in warm, well‑fed conditions. Adult lifespan extends up to a year under optimal circumstances.
How long does a small bedbug live? - in detail
A small bed bug, scientifically known as Cimex lectularius, typically lives between six months and one year under normal indoor conditions. The duration varies with temperature, availability of blood meals, and humidity.
- Egg stage: 5–10 days to hatch at 70–80 °F (21–27 °C).
- Nymphal development: Five instars; each molt requires a blood meal and takes 5–14 days, depending on temperature.
- Adult phase: After the final molt, an adult can survive 4–6 months without feeding, but with regular meals (every 5–7 days) lifespan extends to 12 months or more.
Key factors influencing longevity:
- Temperature: Warm environments (80–85 °F / 27–29 °C) accelerate metabolism, shortening the life cycle to roughly 2–3 months. Cooler settings (below 68 °F / 20 °C) slow development, allowing adults to persist for up to 18 months.
- Host access: Frequent blood meals increase reproductive output and overall survival; scarcity can lead to prolonged fasting periods but eventually reduces lifespan.
- Humidity: Moderate humidity (40–60 %) supports optimal development; extreme dryness or excess moisture may increase mortality.
In summary, a juvenile bed bug progresses from egg to adult within one to two months, and an adult may live from half a year to a year and a half, contingent on environmental conditions and feeding frequency.