Evaluations of pyrethroid susceptibility and the effects of insect growth regulators against the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius, in the laboratory

In recent years, there has been a resurgence in populations of the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius, of which many have shown resistance to pyrethroid pesticides. Management of this hematophagous arthropod has proven challenging and research is needed in order to determine what treatment options are most effective in its control. Three strains of C. lectularius were evaluated in this project – two field-collected strains (“Earl” and “Cincinnati”) and one laboratory strain (“Ft. Dix”). Life tables were constructed for length of embryo development, fecundity, hatch rates, and survivorship as well as feeding and behavioral differences. Efficacy evaluations were conducted in the laboratory for differences in susceptibility to direct applications of pyrethroid formulations. Various insect growth regulators were also evaluated by direct application to bed bug eggs and substrates for ovicidal potential and the subsequent effects on feeding and ecdysis in first instar nymphs which successfully completed eclosion.