How Long Can Bed Bugs Live Without Food

March 6, 2023 Alex T. Uncategorized 0

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. What Are Bed Bugs?
  3. How Long Can Bed Bugs Live Without Food?
  4. Factors That Affect Bed Bug Survival
    1. Temperature
    2. Humidity
    3. Availability of Food
  5. Conclusion

Introduction

Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are typically found in mattresses, furniture, and other areas where people sleep or rest. Bed bugs can be difficult to get rid of, and they can survive for long periods of time without food. In this article, we will discuss how long bed bugs can live without food and the factors that affect their survival.

What Are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are small, wingless insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are typically found in mattresses, furniture, and other areas where people sleep or rest. Bed bugs are reddish-brown in color and can be as small as 1/4 inch in length. They have flat, oval-shaped bodies and six legs. Bed bugs are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night.

Bed bugs are not known to transmit any diseases, but they can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. They can also cause psychological distress due to their presence.

How Long Can Bed Bugs Live Without Food?

Bed bugs can survive for long periods of time without food. Studies have shown that bed bugs can live up to one year without a blood meal. However, they typically only survive for a few months without food.

Factors That Affect Bed Bug Survival

There are several factors that can affect how long bed bugs can survive without food. These include temperature, humidity, and the availability of food.

Temperature

Temperature is one of the most important factors that affects bed bug survival. Bed bugs can survive in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 122°F. However, they are most comfortable in temperatures between 70°F and 90°F. At temperatures below 50°F, bed bugs can become dormant and may not feed for long periods of time. At temperatures above 122°F, bed bugs will die.

Humidity

Humidity is another important factor that affects bed bug survival. Bed bugs prefer humid environments, as they need moisture to survive. They can survive in relative humidity levels as low as 20%, but they are most comfortable in relative humidity levels between 70% and 90%.

Availability of Food

The availability of food is another factor that affects bed bug survival. Bed bugs need a blood meal to survive, so they will not survive for long periods of time without food. If food is not available, bed bugs will become dormant and may not feed for long periods of time.

Conclusion

Bed bugs can survive for long periods of time without food. Studies have shown that bed bugs can live up to one year without a blood meal. However, they typically only survive for a few months without food. The factors that affect bed bug survival include temperature, humidity, and the availability of food. It is important to understand these factors in order to effectively control bed bug populations.

Sources:

  1. https://www.epa.gov/bedbugs/bed-bugs-and-temperature
  2. https://www.epa.gov/bedbugs/bed-bugs-and-humidity