What types of bedbugs exist and where do they live? - briefly
The primary species infesting humans are the common bedbug (Cimex lectularius), widespread in temperate dwellings, and the tropical bedbug (Cimex hemipterus), common in subtropical and tropical regions; additional Cimex species, such as bat bugs (Cimex pilosellus) and bird bugs (Cimex columbinus), occupy roosts and nests of their respective hosts. These insects conceal themselves in mattress seams, furniture crevices, wall voids, and, for the non‑human specialists, in bat colonies, pigeon lofts, or other animal shelters.
What types of bedbugs exist and where do they live? - in detail
Bed bugs belong to the family Cimicidae, a group of obligate hematophagous insects that have adapted to a range of hosts and environments. The most common species affecting humans is Cimex lectularius, which thrives in temperate regions and is closely associated with indoor sleeping areas. A second human‑associated species, Cimex hemipterus, predominates in tropical and subtropical zones, often found in the same domestic settings but tolerating higher temperatures and humidity.
Other members of Cimicidae target specific animals. Cimex pilosellus infests birds, especially pigeons, and is typically located in lofts, attics, and aviaries. Leptocimex boueti parasitizes bats, residing in caves, abandoned structures, and roosting chambers. Ornithocoris species specialize in feeding on various avian hosts, inhabiting nests and coop interiors. Paracimex and Afrocimex species are known to infest rodents and other mammals, often occupying burrows, storage facilities, and agricultural buildings.
Habitat preferences reflect host behavior and environmental conditions. Human‑focused species occupy:
- Mattress seams, box springs, and bed frames.
- Furniture crevices, wall voids, and baseboards.
- Luggage, clothing, and personal items during travel.
Animal‑specific bugs occupy:
- Nesting cavities, coop walls, and feed storage.
- Cave walls, bat roosts, and abandoned tunnels.
- Rodent burrows, grain silos, and farm structures.
Survival depends on access to blood meals, darkness, and stable microclimates. Temperature ranges between 20 °C and 30 °C promote rapid development, while lower temperatures extend life cycles but do not prevent persistence. Humidity levels above 50 % support egg viability, yet species such as C. hemipterus can tolerate drier conditions. Understanding these ecological parameters aids in accurate identification and effective control measures.