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Bed Bugs (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) Population Diversity and First Record of Cimex hemipterus in Paris
Dahlia Chebbah1,2,3, Nohal Elissa2, Denis Sereno4,5
1Parasitology-Mycology Department, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, 93009 Bobigny, France.
Abstract:
Cimex lectularius and C. hemipterus are blood-sucking insects with a long history of presence in human communities. We investigated the molecular diversity of the bed bug population of Paris and its suburb cities using cytochrome oxidase 1 (CO1) sequencing. A total of 1211 specimens belonging to different life stages were collected from 62 infested human dwellings in Paris (13 out of 20 arrondissements) and the surrounding cities (18 cities). Morphological determination and COI sequencing of 132 specimens demonstrated C. lectularius as the predominant species and, surprisingly, the presence of C. hemipterus in four infested areas of Paris and its suburb cities. Neighbor-joining tree and network analyses depicted the presence of two C. lectularius populations. Most samples from Paris and its suburb cities clustered in a major clade. The second population encompasses specimens from Paris (arrondissements 11 and 19) and its suburb cities (e.g., Bobigny, Pantin, and Montreuil) that clustered with Hungary, Czechia, and Finland. This is the second evidence for C. hemipterus infestation in France and the third in Europe, which challenges the classic pattern of C. hemipterus dispersion and implies sympatric occurrence of C. lectularius and C. hemipterus. Since Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, our observations shed light on bed bugs' dispersal dynamic and may help future vector control strategies.
Insights
Molecular analysis revealed two distinct bed bug (Cimex lectularius) populations in Paris. Surprisingly, the tropical bed bug (Cimex hemipterus) was also detected, challenging its typical dispersion patterns.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Entomology
- Urban Entomology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Bed bugs, Cimex lectularius and Cimex hemipterus, are significant ectoparasites with a long history of cohabitation with humans.
- Understanding bed bug population genetics and distribution is crucial for effective pest control and public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the molecular diversity of bed bug populations in Paris and its surrounding urban areas.
- To identify the species present and analyze their genetic structure using molecular markers.
Main Methods:
- Collection of 1211 bed bug specimens from 62 infested dwellings across Paris and 18 suburban cities.
- Morphological identification and DNA sequencing of the cytochrome oxidase 1 (CO1) gene for 132 specimens.
- Phylogenetic analyses including Neighbor-joining tree and network analyses to determine population structure.
Main Results:
- Cimex lectularius was confirmed as the predominant species.
- The presence of Cimex hemipterus was identified in four distinct locations within Paris and its suburbs, marking the third European detection.
- Two distinct genetic populations of C. lectularius were identified, with one population showing genetic links to Eastern Europe (Hungary, Czechia, Finland).
Conclusions:
- The findings challenge the established dispersion patterns of C. hemipterus, indicating potential sympatric occurrence with C. lectularius in urban environments.
- The genetic diversity observed in Paris bed bug populations highlights complex dispersal dynamics, potentially influenced by global travel.
- These insights are vital for developing targeted and effective vector control strategies in major metropolitan and tourist hubs.
