To molt, do bed bugs require a blood meal?

Bed bugs do indeed require a blood meal to molt. This is because their growth process is dependent on the nutrients and energy derived from feeding. After feeding on blood, the bed bugs enter a process of ecdysis, or molting, where they shed their exoskeleton to grow. This stage is crucial for their development through various life stages, from nymph to adult.

The life cycle of bed bugs involves multiple molts, and without sufficient nourishment from blood meals, they cannot successfully complete this process. This requirement is a key aspect of their biology and underscores the importance of feeding for their development and survival.

Other options do not accurately reflect the specific biological needs of bed bugs in relation to molting.