Temporary feeding inhibition caused by artificial abdominal distension in the bedbug, Cimex lectularius.

Abdominal distension of haematophagous insects caused by ingested blood has been recognised as an important contributor to triggering meal termination, feeding inhibition and further susceptibility to host signals. Factors that regulate feeding behaviour of the common bedbug, Cimex lectularius, are poorly understood. By injecting air directly into the body cavity of virgin female C.