[Investigation of the Distribution of Bed Bugs (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) Occurring in the Republic of Korea from 2023 to 2024].

Bed bugs are ectoparasites, and approximately 110 species belonging to 24 genera have been reported globally. Three species of bed bugs are used for human blood-feeding: Cimex lectularius, Cimex hemipterus, and Leptocimex bouetii. It is believed that the bed bug population was continuously reduced in the Republic of Korea (ROK) and then eradicated in 1945. However, C. lectularius has recently been reported by travelers or US military units stationed in the ROK. C. hemipterus has not been observed since it was first reported in 1934. However, it was recently reported at a house in Osan. In this study, we attempted to survey distribution of bed bugs to confirm the species identification and analyze their genetic diversity. To identify the bed bug species, morphological and molecular identification were performed. Adults can be identified using morphological characteristics. Whereas, larvae and nymphs can be identified by molecular methods, because their morphological characteristics are unclear. Phylogenetic analysis was performed by sequencing cytochrome oxidase I to analyze genetic diversity. As a result of the study, two species of bed bugs were identified living in the ROK, and C. hemipterus was mainly collected. While C. hemipterus was confirmed to have a single genotype, three genotypes of C. lectularius were confirmed. The results of this study may be used as a baseline for bed bug monitoring and control in the ROK.