Bed bug (Cimex lectularius), SEM

Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a bed bug (Cimex lectularius). This bed bug prefers to feed on human blood. Bed bugs are found in temperate climates throughout the world in upholstered furniture and mattresses. They usually feed at night, often on people asleep and unaware of the insect's bite. They are not effective vectors of disease, but their bites can cause inflammation and allergic reactions to components of their saliva can occur. The mouthparts are shaped into an elongated proboscis. When the bug is ready to feed, the proboscis is extended forward and the stylet penetrates the skin of the host. The stylet comprises a food channel and a salivary channel. Saliva, containing anticoagulants and anaesthetic substances is injected into the host via the salivary channel. Host blood is ingested via the food channel. Adult bed bugs live 6-12 months and a female bed bug may produce several hundred offspring during its lifetime. Magnification: x100 when printed at 10cm