Response Surface Methodology–Based Optimization of Localized Heat Treatment for Managing Cimex lectularius (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) Infestations

This study explores the efficacy of localized heat treatment as a method for controlling bed bug ( Cimex lectularius L.) infestations. Experiments were carried out to determine the lethal temperature and time necessary to achieve mortality in bed bugs and their eggs. Various combinations of lethal temperatures and exposure times were applied. A temperature of 45°C resulted in the highest mortality rates, establishing it as a promising pest control approach. The lethal temperatures (36°C–49°C) and times (20–100 min) were optimized using response surface methodology with a central composite design. The study showed that maximum mortality of bed bugs and their eggs was achieved at 45°C with a 60‐min exposure time (100 ± 0%). Additionally, lethal temperature and time were evaluated for infested cracked wood and mattress surfaces. For these surfaces, a lethal temperature of 75°C and an exposure time of 30 min were identified. These findings highlight the potential of heat treatment as an effective pest management strategy, accelerating the elimination of this persistent pest from infested homes.