What are bed lice and where do they come from? - briefly
Bed lice (Cimex lectularius) are minute, blood‑feeding insects that inhabit mattresses, box springs, and surrounding bedding. They originate from infested furniture, travel luggage, and close contact with contaminated sleeping environments.
What are bed lice and where do they come from? - in detail
Bed lice, commonly known as bed bugs, belong to the species Cimex lectularius. They are small, wingless, hematophagous insects measuring 4–5 mm in length, with a flattened oval body that expands after feeding. Their mouthparts are adapted for piercing skin and extracting blood, allowing them to survive for months without a host.
The insect’s development proceeds through five nymphal instars before reaching adulthood. Each stage requires a blood meal to molt:
- First instar (≈ 1 mm)
- Second instar
- Third instar
- Fourth instar
- Fifth instar
- Adult
Females lay 1–5 eggs per day, depositing them in concealed cracks and crevices near sleeping areas. Eggs hatch in 6–10 days, and the cycle repeats. Adults can live 6–12 months under favorable conditions, tolerating temperatures from 15 °C to 30 °C; extreme heat or prolonged cold reduces survival.
Originating in tropical regions, bed lice spread globally through human migration, trade, and travel. Historical records trace infestations to ancient Egypt, where they were noted in burial sites. Modern distribution results from:
- International tourism and airline travel
- Movement of second‑hand furniture and mattresses
- Dense housing and communal living environments
These insects are attracted to carbon dioxide, body heat, and pheromones emitted by sleeping hosts. After feeding, they retreat to hiding places, often behind headboards, within mattress seams, or in wall voids. Their nocturnal activity and ability to conceal themselves make detection difficult.
Control measures focus on integrated pest management:
- Thorough inspection of bedding, furniture, and surrounding structures
- Application of heat treatments (≥ 50 °C for 30 minutes) to eradicate all life stages
- Use of approved insecticides in cracks and crevices
- Encasement of mattresses and box springs with certified covers
- Reduction of clutter to eliminate harborages
Understanding the biology, habitat preferences, and pathways of dispersal is essential for effective eradication and prevention of re‑infestation.