How many years do bed bug eggs live? - briefly
Bed bug eggs remain viable for only about one to two weeks, typically hatching within 6–10 days under normal conditions. They do not persist for years.
How many years do bed bug eggs live? - in detail
Bed bug eggs remain viable for a limited period, typically measured in weeks rather than years. Under optimal temperature (25‑30 °C) and humidity (70‑80 % RH), embryogenesis completes in 6‑10 days, after which nymphs emerge. If conditions are cooler (15‑20 °C) or drier, development slows, extending to 2‑3 weeks but still not exceeding one month.
Eggs that are not fertilized or are exposed to extreme conditions (below 10 °C, above 35 °C, or humidity below 30 %) lose viability rapidly. Laboratory studies show that at 5 °C, eggs may survive up to 6 weeks before desiccation or mortality occurs. At 40 °C, mortality reaches 100 % within 48 hours.
The longest recorded survival of dormant eggs occurs when they are stored in a protected environment (sealed, dark, moderate humidity) at temperatures near 20 °C. In such cases, hatchability declines after 3‑4 months, with virtually no successful emergence beyond six months. No evidence supports survival beyond a year.
Key points:
- Normal incubation: 6‑10 days at 25‑30 °C, 70‑80 % RH.
- Low temperature (5‑10 °C) extends viability to ~6 weeks; high temperature (>35 °C) kills within days.
- Desiccation below 30 % RH leads to rapid egg death.
- Maximum documented dormant period: approximately 4‑6 months under optimal storage; survival beyond 12 months is unsubstantiated.
Therefore, bed bug eggs do not persist for years; their lifespan is confined to weeks under favorable conditions and a few months at most when dormant.