Life tables of Cimex lectularius L. (Heteroptera: Cimicidae): comparing strains, heredity and food sources

Knowledge of development of the common bed bug Cimex lectularius L. under varying conditions can lead to more sophisticated management. Developmental rates, age and stage-specific life tables were compared for a laboratory strain (Harlan) and a field strain (Ecolab 2005 (ECL-05)) of bed bug using blood from both humans and rabbits. Both strains were then crossed to produce four F1 generations (Harlan female X Harlan male; Harlan female X ECL-05 male; ECL-05 female X ECL-05 male; ECL-05 female X Harlan male) and subsequent age and stage-specific life tables were constructed. Differences were found in development parameters among combinations of strains, parental history, and food source.