What are bedbugs in a house? - briefly
Bedbugs are tiny, wingless parasites that feed on human blood, residing in mattress seams, furniture cracks, and wall voids. Infestations are recognized by reddish‑brown fecal spots, bite marks, and the presence of the insects themselves.
What are bedbugs in a house? - in detail
Bedbugs are small, wing‑less insects that feed exclusively on the blood of humans and, occasionally, other warm‑blooded animals. Adults measure 4–5 mm in length, have a flattened, oval body, and display a reddish‑brown coloration that darkens after feeding. They belong to the family Cimicidae, with the common species in homes identified as Cimex lectularius.
The insect’s life cycle comprises egg, five nymphal stages, and adult. Females lay 200–500 eggs over several months, depositing them in cracks, seams, and hidden crevices. Nymphs require a blood meal to molt to the next stage; each stage can survive several weeks without feeding, allowing the population to persist despite intermittent host contact. Feeding occurs at night, typically while the host is asleep, and lasts 5–10 minutes before the bug retreats to its harbor.
Visible indicators of an infestation include:
- Small, rust‑colored spots on bedding, representing digested blood
- Tiny, translucent eggs or shed exoskeletons in mattress seams, baseboards, and furniture joints
- Live or dead insects observed in folds of fabric, behind wall panels, or in electrical outlets
- Persistent, sweet‑ish odor resembling coriander when the population is large
Effective eradication relies on a combination of mechanical, chemical, and preventive actions:
- Remove and launder all bedding, curtains, and clothing at ≥ 60 °C; dry‑clean items that cannot be washed.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks thoroughly, then discard the vacuum bag in a sealed container.
- Apply approved insecticide sprays or dusts to harborage sites, following label instructions and safety guidelines.
- Install encasements on mattresses and box springs to trap any remaining bugs and prevent re‑infestation.
- Seal cracks, crevices, and utility entry points to reduce hiding places.
- Conduct regular inspections after treatment to confirm the absence of new activity.
Early detection and comprehensive intervention prevent the rapid expansion of bedbug colonies, protecting both occupants’ health and the integrity of the dwelling.