Bedbugs: Small but Mighty Hunters
In Bedbugs: Small but Mighty Hunters, host Harith Iskander dives into the fascinating survival strategies of Cimex Lectularius, commonly known as bedbugs. These tiny insects, about the size of an apple seed, rely on human blood to reproduce and are highly attuned to their environment. With an excellent sense of smell, bedbugs can detect over 100 compounds found in human skin and are drawn to carbon dioxide and even dirty laundry. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Got Science? a science magazine series that explores and explains science in everyday life.
Lesson Express
Q: Why are bedbugs attracted to humans and their surroundings?
A: Bedbugs are drawn to carbon dioxide and compounds found on human skin, which help them locate food sources.
Q: How do bedbugs’ strong sense of smell help them survive?
A: Their sense of smell helps them detect humans and suitable environments for feeding and reproduction, such as places with dirty laundry.
Q: What are some ways people can prevent bedbugs from being attracted to their homes?
A: Keeping laundry clean, avoiding clutter, and reducing humidity can help make an environment less appealing to bedbugs.