What do bedbugs look like in diapause? - briefly
During diapause, bedbugs become immobile, their bodies turn a dull, pale brown and their abdomen swells slightly as they retain moisture, giving them a flattened, sluggish appearance. Their eyes and antennae remain visible but lack the typical glossy sheen seen in active individuals.
What do bedbugs look like in diapause? - in detail
During the dormant phase, adult Cimex lectularius adopt a compact, flattened profile. The exoskeleton becomes matte rather than glossy, reducing reflections that might attract predators. Body length remains approximately 4–5 mm, but the abdomen contracts, giving a shorter, more rounded silhouette.
Coloration shifts toward a uniform reddish‑brown hue. The characteristic bright orange‑red after‑molt sheen fades, and the cuticle takes on a dull, brownish tone that blends with bedding fabrics. Legs and antennae appear thinner, with reduced setae visibility.
Key visual markers of the dormant state include:
- Reduced abdominal volume: abdomen appears collapsed, with visible segmentation less pronounced.
- Matte cuticle: surface loses the typical glossy sheen seen in active individuals.
- Uniform brown coloration: loss of the post‑molting orange tint, resulting in a consistent dark brown shade.
- Shortened posture: body held close to the substrate, minimizing exposed surface area.
- Diminished leg movement: legs remain tucked, giving the impression of a static, immobile insect.
These traits facilitate survival during extended periods of low temperature or limited food availability, allowing the insect to remain unnoticed and conserve energy until favorable conditions return.