The first record of the tropical bed bug Cimex hemipterus (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) in Iran

Bed bugs are regarded as one of the most important pests in human societies. Cimex hemipterus (Fabricius) is a parasite of humans and bats across tropical areas of the world. In the present study, the nymph and adult specimens were collected from residential buildings in central and western parts of Iran. Samples were identified using a diagnostic key at the species level and confirmed by molecular studies. Phylogenetic analysis using COI gene was also carried out. This study is the first report to have confirmed the presence of C. hemipterus in Iran.