7: Quantitative studies of clustered oviposition in the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius

The common bed bug is a global public health pest with a rapid reproductive cycle. The aim of this study was to determine if there is clustering in egg laying, and if multiple females are contributing to egg clusters. Further studies attempted to understand the benefits of this behavior.
In a preliminary study, bed bug egg position on colony papers was measured and clustering was observed. In a second experiment females were fed, paired with males, and placed into arenas. After week one, half were removed, fed, and placed back into their dishes; the other half were removed and replaced with new bugs. After week two, egg position was analyzed, and it was determined that egg clustering was occurring between conspecific females. Then, in three experiments we tested the physically fitness of first instar nymphs hatched from clustered eggs or individually. Nymphs from both groups had similar hatching and survival data. When nymphs were manually flipped onto their backs, nymphs that had hatched from clustered eggs were more successful at flipping back onto their legs than those hatched alone. Finally, nymphs hatched from clustered eggs were more likely to survive and molt following a blood meal than those hatched individually. Experiments were replicated three times.
Our results indicate that bed bugs lay eggs in conspecific clusters to promote survival of offspring. Furthering our understanding of bed bug survival, oviposition, and aggregation can help us develop tools and techniques to manage challenging infestations in urban areas.