What is the name of the bed bug? - briefly
The bed bug commonly found in homes is scientifically named Cimex lectularius.
What is the name of the bed bug? - in detail
The insect commonly referred to as the bed bug is scientifically named Cimex lectularius. A second species, Cimex hemipterus, occurs primarily in tropical regions and shares many characteristics with the former.
Taxonomic classification:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Family: Cimicidae
- Genus: Cimex
- Species: C. lectularius (common) and C. hemipterus (tropical)
Morphology:
- Adult size: 4–5 mm in length, oval, dorsoventrally flattened.
- Color: Reddish‑brown after feeding, pale when unfed.
- Mouthparts: Piercing‑sucking proboscis adapted for blood extraction.
Life cycle:
- Egg (≈5 days).
- Five nymphal instars (≈5–7 days each).
- Adult (≈30 days to sexual maturity).
Feeding behavior:
- Nocturnal activity; attracted to body heat and carbon dioxide.
- Blood meals last 5–10 minutes; digestion requires 5–10 days.
Habitat:
- Prefers human dwellings: mattresses, box springs, furniture crevices.
- Can survive several months without a blood meal under favorable conditions.
Control measures:
- Heat treatment above 45 °C eliminates all life stages.
- Insecticide applications targeting cracks and seams reduce populations.
- Regular inspection and laundering of bedding at high temperatures prevent infestations.
Understanding the precise scientific designation and biological traits of these pests is essential for effective identification and management.