Bed bug development stages

Bed bugs go through a process known as metamorphosis, where they undergo several development stages before reaching adulthood. These stages are:

1. Egg Stage: Female bed bugs lay tiny, white, oval-shaped eggs in groups of 10-50. The eggs are about 1 mm in length and are usually laid in cracks and crevices near the host's resting place.

2. First Instar Stage: After about a week, the eggs hatch, and the bed bugs emerge as first instar nymphs. These nymphs are about 1.5 mm in length and are translucent in color. They are hungry and start searching for their first blood meal.

3. Second Instar Stage: After the first blood meal, the nymphs enter the second instar stage. At this stage, they are about 2 mm long and have a more pronounced reddish-brown color. They continue to feed and molt their skin, shedding their exoskeletons as they grow.

4. Third Instar Stage: After the second blood meal, the nymphs enter the third instar stage. They are now about 2.5 mm long and have a darker reddish-brown color. They continue to feed and molt their skin.

5. Fourth Instar Stage: After the third blood meal, the nymphs enter the fourth instar stage. They are now about 3 mm long and have a more distinct reddish-brown color. They continue to feed and molt their skin.

6. Fifth Instar Stage: After the fourth blood meal, the nymphs enter the fifth instar stage. They are now about 4.5 mm long and have a fully developed reddish-brown color. They continue to feed and molt their skin.

7. Adult Stage: After the fifth and final blood meal, the bed bug molts its skin one last time and emerges as an adult. The adult bed bug is about 5-7 mm long, has a flat, oval-shaped body, and is reddish-brown in color. Adult females can lay up to five eggs per day, and the cycle starts over again.