Bugs that Bite and Bugs that YOU Bite

Who likes bugs? They are annoying and usually show up wherever and whenever they aren't wanted. It's no wonder they got that name; they bug the heck out of you at the worst possible moments. Here are a few examples of common bugs that you probably don't even think about because you either don't see them or don't even realize that they are considered insects!

Shrimp : The "Bugs of the Sea"

Most people call shrimp the bugs or cockroaches of the sea because they bottom feed. They eat whatever falls to the bottom of the water, including feces and other undesirable substances. In fact, all crustaceans, which includes crabs and crayfish, are also considered the bugs of the sea because they are a type of arthropod. Arthropods are insects, like spiders and scorpions, with jointed legs, a hard outer shell, and no backbone. So if you're a crab eater, think about this the next time you say "ewww" when you see someone eating ants or bugs on nature shows.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic bugs that live in your home and feed on dead skin cells. They thrive in beds, in carpets, and on couches where skin cells are plentiful. Dust mites do not bite or burrow themselves into your skin, but they can cause your allergies to act up when they shed their skin. Their feces also cause allergic reactions in some people. It is almost impossible to escape dust mites, so just don't think about them. They are so tiny that you will never see them, and they can't directly hurt you.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are real, and they do bite. While rare, when you have a bed bug problem either at home or in a hotel room, you are probably going to be scared to go to sleep at all. Bed bugs are reddish-brown insects the size of seeds. Bedbugs are blood suckers; they feed on human blood and other mammals as they sleep. Their bites can leave behind rashes and redness. They usually hide behind bed posts and dressers, then come out at night. So if you are going to be staying at a less than desirable motel or hotel, be sure you do a bed bug check before you lay your head down.

Hopefully reading this article hasn't made you want to give up eating shrimp and crab legs or wrap yourself in cellophane each night before bed !

Sources:

http://www.armofthesea.info/flora_fauna/ff_speciespp/arthropoda.htm

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bedbugs/DS00663

http://www.ehso.com/ehshome/dustmites.php