How many species are there in Cimicidae?

The family Cimicidae is divided into six subfamilies with 23 genera and 91 described species.

What are the three types of bed bugs Cimicidae that will feed on humans?

Of all the cimicid species only three feed on humans. These include Leptocimex boueti Brumpt, a West African species that feeds on humans and bats; Cimex hemipterus F. (tropical bed bug), found in both the new and old world tropics feeding on humans and chickens; and Cimex lectularius L.

How many types of bed bug are there?

90 different species
While there are about 90 different species of bed bugs, only three are actually known to feed on humans. Learn more about the different types of bed bugs. Learn about the different types of bed bugs, their identifying characteristics and how to tell them apart with these frequently asked questions about bed bugs.

What is the most common bed bug?

Cimex lectularius
Bed bug infestations are primarily the result of two species of insects from genus Cimex: Cimex lectularius (the common bed bug) and Cimex hemipterus (the tropical bed bug). These insects feed exclusively on blood and, at any stage of development, may survive up to 70 days without feeding.

Where do bed bugs hide on your body?

They can be anywhere on the body, but bites on feet and ankles are most common. Bed bug bites tend to appear in a straight pattern. Although they can also appear anywhere, they are most likely on the face, neck, and arms.

What instantly kills bed bugs?

The high temperature of steam 212°F (100°C) immediately kills bed bugs. Apply steam slowly to the folds and tufts of mattresses, along with sofa seams, bed frames, and corners or edges where bed bugs may be hiding.

Do bed bugs hide in clothes?

The short answer is Yes. Bed bugs can hide in clothes and furniture. If you have noticed that your wardrobe has been infested by bed bugs, probably because one of them exited their hiding place, then here are a few tips on how to get rid of bed bugs in clothes.

What kills bed bugs and their eggs?

If you’ve discovered bed bug eggs clinging to bedsheets or clothing, washing and drying them at temperatures of at least 120°F is enough to kill them. For upholstered furniture, a steamer can be a good option. Steam forms from water at 212°F, which is hot enough to instantly kill any bed bugs and their eggs.

What diseases can bed bugs cause?

Bed bugs are not known to spread disease. Bed bugs can be an annoyance because their presence may cause itching and loss of sleep. Sometimes the itching can lead to excessive scratching that can sometimes increase the chance of a secondary skin infection.

What are the different species related to bedbugs?

Bed bugs are closely related to the blood-feeding, bat bugs and predatory minute pirate bugs (family Anthocoridae) that are used as natural enemies in integrated pest management.

What are bed bugs attracted to?

carbon dioxide
Bed bugs are attracted to body heat and carbon dioxide from warm-blooded animals. When humans sleep, we are inactive, and the carbon dioxide we exhale surrounds our heads. This is why the majority of bed bug bites happen on the head and neck, although these bugs can bite on other exposed areas of the body.

What smells attract bed bugs?

One scent that bed bugs find appealing is dirty laundry or dirty bedding because of how it smells once it’s come in contact with humans. Research has shown that bed bugs prefer previously worn clothing and used bedding, which is why you shouldn’t leave these items on the floor close to your bed.

How do you tell if bedbugs are in your clothes?

Inspect clothing carefully for bed bugs before purchasing. Even if you choose an item from an undisturbed pile, bed bugs could still find their way onto clothing. Pay particular attention to the inside seams, looking for any signs of sticky white eggs, shed skins and the bugs themselves.