What do red-colored bedbugs look like? - briefly
Red‑tinged bedbugs resemble the common Cimex lectularius, with a flattened, oval body about 5 mm long, but their exoskeleton displays a reddish hue, especially on the dorsal surface. The coloration arises from blood engorgement or a genetic variant, not from a separate species.
What do red-colored bedbugs look like? - in detail
Red‑tinged Cimex lectularius presents the same flattened, oval body as typical specimens, measuring 4–5 mm in length and 2–3 mm in width. The exoskeleton exhibits a deep, rust‑like hue that can range from dark mahogany to bright crimson, depending on the degree of recent blood ingestion. Coloration intensifies after feeding, as the abdomen expands and the hemolymph adopts a reddish tint.
Key morphological details include:
- Dorsal surface: smooth, glossy cuticle with uniform pigmentation; no distinct patterns or markings.
- Antennae: five‑segmented, slender, matching the overall body color; each segment bears fine sensilla for host detection.
- Legs: six, each ending in a claw adapted for clinging to fabric; leg coloration mirrors the dorsal hue.
- Mouthparts: elongated proboscis concealed beneath the head, capable of piercing skin; remains uncolored and transparent.
- Wings: absent; the species is wingless, relying on passive transport via clothing or luggage.
The red coloration does not indicate a separate species; it reflects physiological changes associated with recent engorgement or the age of the exoskeleton. In unfed individuals, the hue may appear lighter, approaching a brownish‑gray tone, while heavily fed bugs display the most vivid scarlet shade. The coloration persists until the insect molts, after which the new exoskeleton returns to a lighter tone.