What does a dormitory bug look like? - briefly
The dormitory insect is a small, oval, reddish‑brown arthropod about 4–5 mm long, with a flat dorsal surface, visible antennae and six legs. After feeding, its abdomen expands, becoming a swollen, lighter‑colored shape.
What does a dormitory bug look like? - in detail
The insect most frequently encountered in shared student accommodation displays a distinct set of physical characteristics. Adult specimens measure approximately five to seven millimetres in length, with a flattened, oval body shape. The dorsal surface exhibits a reddish‑brown hue that darkens after feeding, while the ventral side remains lighter. Six jointed legs extend from the thorax, each ending in a pair of tiny claws that facilitate rapid movement across fabrics and furniture.
Key morphological features include:
- Two elongated antennae, each composed of segmented filaments, positioned near the head and used for sensory detection.
- A pair of membranous wings concealed beneath the forewings; in many cases the forewings are reduced to hardened elytra that protect the abdomen.
- A pronotum (the shield‑like plate behind the head) that is narrower than the abdomen, providing a clear point of identification.
- Mouthparts adapted for piercing and sucking, visible as a slender beak extending from the front of the head.
Color variations may occur based on recent blood meals, with engorged individuals appearing markedly swollen and deep crimson. Nymphal stages are smaller, translucent, and lack fully developed wing covers, but retain the characteristic oval silhouette.
Behavioural traits support identification: the insect exhibits nocturnal activity, a tendency to hide in seams, mattress tags, and behind baseboard cracks, and releases a faint, sweet odor when disturbed. These physical and behavioural markers together form a reliable profile for recognizing the bug commonly found in dormitory environments.