Exploring genetic diversity and phylogenetic connections of tropical bed bugs, Cimex hemipterus (F.) infestation in Indonesia

Abstract

Bed bugs pose significant public health challenges in tropical regions like Indonesia. This study aimed to identify the species of bed bugs involved in bed bug infestations across Indonesia using morphological and molecular approaches. Specimens were collected from 10 locations, including Central Java, Papua, and Kalimantan. A total of 101 C. hemipterus specimens were collected and examined morphologically, of which 23 were further analyzed using COX1 gene sequencing. Morphological identification confirmed all samples as C. hemipterus, with pronotum width-to-length ratios consistent with established keys. Molecular analysis of COX1 gene sequences revealed 98.61% to 99.77% similarity to reference sequences from Malaysia and Iraq. Phylogenetic analysis revealed strong genetic similarity among Southeast Asian populations, with minor regional variations and a distinct sub-branch for Iranian samples. The findings highlight the adaptability of C. hemipterus to diverse environments and its widespread prevalence in Indonesia. This study provides insight into genetic diversity and a foundation for future epidemiological studies.