Dear cavers/cave biologists,
Working on the mating behaviour and phylogeny of bedbugs (Cimicidae) we are asking for the help of those that might encounter these bugs regularly during the field work - You!
How do the bugs look like?
Like the human bedbug: Many species living on South East Asian bats will have a similar appearance.
Several cave-dwelling species also have a spiderlike appearance, e.g. African bat bug.
Where and how to find?
- in caves with bats, swifts and swallows all over the world
- bedbugs are rarely found on their hosts
- in nesting places of birds
- in cracks on walls of humid caves
- look for specimens, moult skins and eggs on the ground
How can you help us?
Would you be able to send us specimens of these bugs DEAD (ethanol preserved) OR ALIVE? Or would you be willing to let us know the precise location and the host species? Are you interested in a scientific collaboration? Can we join you on a cave excursion? Please contact us to discuss the details! We are also happy to identify species upon request! Please forward this link http://bit.do/bedbug_wanted to colleagues!