How long does dormancy last in bedbugs? - briefly
Dormancy in bedbugs may persist for several weeks to many months, with typical durations up to six months and occasional reports of survival for a year under optimal conditions. Temperature and food scarcity are the primary factors influencing the length of this inactive phase.
How long does dormancy last in bedbugs? - in detail
Dormancy in bed bugs, also known as diapause or quiescence, is a physiological state entered when environmental conditions become unfavorable. The period can vary widely depending on temperature, humidity, host availability, and developmental stage.
Typical durations observed in laboratory and field studies:
- At moderate temperatures (20‑25 °C) with limited blood meals, adults may remain dormant for 30‑90 days.
- Under colder conditions (5‑10 °C), dormancy can extend to 150‑200 days, as metabolic rates decline.
- Extreme low‑temperature exposure (below 5 °C) has been documented to prolong the state up to 400 days, representing the longest recorded interval.
- Eggs and early‑instar nymphs exhibit shorter quiescent periods, generally not exceeding 30 days, because they are more sensitive to desiccation.
Key factors influencing the length of the dormant phase:
- Temperature: Lower temperatures slow development and extend dormancy; higher temperatures shorten it.
- Relative humidity: Values below 50 % increase desiccation risk, prompting earlier termination of dormancy when conditions improve.
- Host presence: Absence of a blood source triggers entry into dormancy; detection of a host initiates reactivation.
- Photoperiod: Short daylight periods can signal upcoming unfavorable seasons, contributing to diapause initiation.
Reactivation occurs when favorable conditions return, marked by increased temperature, adequate humidity, and the detection of a host. During reactivation, metabolic activity rises, and feeding behavior resumes within 24‑48 hours.