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Questions re: Bed Bug Anatomy
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Marixpress
member
Joined: Sep '08
Posts: 305
Posted 1 year ago
Mon Dec 1 2008 11:51:14
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I’ve noticed a white patch on the underside of several bugs I have caught or killed. Does anyone know what that is? I was wondering if maybe that meant the bug was female and/or carrying eggs.
Also, is there any marking or telltale sign to identify adult bugs?
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Hi,
Its not a female carrying an egg, bed bugs have a cement like coating tot he eggs so that they stick to surfaces they are not really in the habit of carrying eggs.
I think I know what the mark might be, but would ideally like to see the sample to confirm. If you were willing to send it over I will see if I can confirm my theory.
I usually identify adults by the size and colour. If you look at the infamous Dr Doggett life cycle picture (see link below) the chitin exoskeleton gets darker as the bed bugs develop into adults and only really become mahogany when they are mature.
http://bedbugger.com/photos-of-bed-bugs-and-signs-of-bed-bugs/
Before the dark colour forms they are unable to breed.
Good luck hunting.
David
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thebedbugresource
old timer
Joined: Apr '07
Posts: 325
Posted 1 year ago
Mon Dec 1 2008 21:07:35
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It is possible that you are seeing bed bugs that have molted recently. The pigment in the exoskeleton will darken at different rates after a molt.
Sincerely,
Sean
Entomologist/Pest Professional
www.thebedbugresource.com
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