Do Bed Bugs Need Water to Survive?
WouterWhile most people believe that bed bugs need water to survive, it’s actually the opposite. Unlike mosquitoes, bedbugs do not need water to survive. They rely on their body fluids and food to survive. In fact, scientists have recreated bedbug feeding behaviors in jars of warm blood. By drawing a cloth over a jar of warm blood, scientists are able to mimic the insects’ skin and trigger their feeding reflex. In addition, since bedbugs are mostly indoor pests, they are unlikely to encounter water sources outside of their homes. Therefore, they do not need to consume water in jars of purified water.
Although bedbugs do not have lungs, they do have a system of tiny tubes called tracheae. They take in air through holes in their abdomen, and these tubes branch out into smaller ones. These tubes are similar to our circulatory system, but unlike ours, bedbugs can only take in small amounts of oxygen at a time. Because of their small size, they can survive on a minimal amount of oxygen at a time.
If you have a confirmed bed bug infestation, it’s best to consult a professional. Professionals can use a variety of chemicals in combination with non-chemical methods. Some of these methods include washing bedding in hot water, putting up insect screens, and using a steam or heat treatment to kill the bugs. Once an infestation is eliminated, it’s essential to follow up to prevent the bugs from returning.
