Know where you go : infestation dynamics and potential distribution of two bed bug species (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) in Africa

Abstract

Bed bugs (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) are blood-feeding insects closely linked with humans and animals, causing discomfort, and posing potential threats as disease vectors. This study focuses on Cimex lectularius (common bed bug) and Cimex hemipterus (tropical bed bug), the two key species identified in Africa. Cimex lectularius infests human habitats, while C. hemipterus, more common in Africa, infests diverse habitats, including bat colonies. In our study, we investigated the infestation dynamics and distribution of bed bugs in Africa, when considering climate, habitat, and host availability using system dynamics and ecological niche modelling techniques. System dynamics modelling analyses in Kenya revealed varied infestation dynamics, with Mombasa having high C. lectularius prevalence, Nairobi having lower coexistence, and Makueni/Bomet C. hemipterus showing dominance. Across Africa, C. hemipterus prevails, especially in central and coastal areas, while C. lectularius has lower suitability, with isolated high-suitability zones. Both species coexist in central/southern Africa, parts of the east, and coastal areas in septentrional/west Africa. The Sahara’s extreme conditions challenge both bed bug species’ survival, emphasizing climate’s role in their infestation and distribution dynamics. Insights into bed bug ecology in Africa underscore the need for comprehensive pest management and public health strategies in the continent.

SIMPLE SUMMARY This study explores the dynamics of bed bug infestations in Africa, focusing on two species: the common (Cimex lectularius) and the tropical (Cimex hemipterus) bed bugs. These bugs, known for feeding on blood, are not only a nuisance but can potentially transmit diseases. The research utilized system dynamics modeling for infestation and ecological niche modeling to analyze their potential distribution across different climates and habitats and their host availabilities in Africa. The findings revealed varied infestation patterns in Kenya, with a high prevalence of C. lectularius in Mombasa and dominance of C. hemipterus in regions like Makueni and Bomet. This study maps the potential spread of these species across Africa, highlighting areas with high coexistence risks. This research is crucial as a prerequisite for developing effective pest management strategies and public health measures to combat bed bug infestations, thus safeguarding local and regional food supplies and overall human health.