The Control Bugs represent a distinct species within the Arachnid genus, known for their ability to subjugate human hosts. Upon infestation, they systematically terminate their hosts and commandeer their bodies, effectively manipulating them as puppets to further the agenda of the Arachnids.
Starship Troopers film universe[]
Control Bugs infiltrate the human body through various cavities and orifices, such as the mouth, before burrowing directly into the brain to exert control over the host's mind. Initially, victims may exhibit no outward signs of infestation; however, their health gradually deteriorates as the bugs consume them for sustenance. Once the Control Bugs have depleted their host to the brink of death, they either self-remove or are extracted, allowing them to propagate and initiate a new cycle of infection.
The sole documented incident involving these bugs occurred at Hotel Delta 1-8-5, where their objective was to infiltrate the Federation high command by infecting General Jack Shepherd. Through the General's potential transmission to Federation leaders, the Arachnids aimed to severely undermine humanity's military capabilities.
The first recorded human infected by Control Bugs was Technical Sergeant Ari Peck, whose infection rapidly spread throughout Hotel Delta 1-8-5, affecting all occupants except three individuals.
Empirical Data[]
- Due to the limited intelligence available, primarily derived from the debriefing of Private Sahara, pertinent details are drawn from specific cases, notably:
- Tech Sergeant Ari Peck, identified as the initial host. Initially observed in a compromised state with unusual skin pigmentation and pronounced body odor. The correlation between his symptoms - including severe stuttering, twitching, and alopecia - and the Control Bug remains speculative, although the stuttering progressively worsens over time. According to Griff's testimony, potential infection occurred approximately six days prior. Despite awareness of his condition, Peck prioritizes operational tasks, displaying resilience in maintaining radio functionality. Subsequent physical manifestations include a neck injury sustained following commendation from Shepherd, increased fragility evidenced by the ease of limb detachment, and ocular discoloration. Peck exhibits minimal concern regarding bodily harm or mutilation.
- Corporal Joe Griff, identified as Vector 2, presented no discernible abnormalities upon arrival at the fortress. Notably, he exhibited a notable preference for sugar consumption on two separate occasions, a behavior possibly linked to Bug metabolism. Additionally, Sahara noted an anomalous black coloration on Griff's left thumb, a observation potentially augmented by her psychic capabilities. Throughout combat engagements with Dix, Griff displayed strategic acumen and demonstrated a level of intelligence in his tactical approach
- Private Charlie Soda, designated as Vector 3, assumes the role of "the designated infector," demonstrating the ability to generate at least three bugs, the latter two of which are produced with blood. Initially rendered unconscious, her physical state was remarked upon by General Shepherd as "unusually light," although this comment may have alternatively been directed as a critique of a subordinate's performance. Upon regaining consciousness, Soda exhibited the action of cracking her neck. She promptly endeavored to infect Captain Dax, the most formidable individual in the unit, though her efforts were thwarted when he imposed punishment in the form of push-ups. Subsequently, Soda was observed in a state of complete undress within the quarters, a behavior seemingly devoid of purpose other than an attempt to infect Sahara with a Control Bug through seduction, despite Sahara's prior romantic involvement with another individual. Despite holding the rank of rifleman, Soda's proficiency with the assault rifle was notably lacking, as evidenced by her inability to hit a target at close range. Additionally, her susceptibility to pain from an M7 Incendiary grenade was evident, yet she managed to persist for a significant duration thereafter.
- Following the attempted infection of Sahara, Private Duff Horton promptly intervened. Despite being decapitated, the Bug exhibited resilience, surviving the ordeal. However, it was ultimately neutralized through incineration in a microwave.
- Private Jill Sandee's response to Horton's infidelity was swiftly capitalized upon by Griff. Shortly thereafter, she displayed signs of heightened emotional distress. Sandee's infection was confirmed through her participation in drawing the star alongside other known "thralls." Notably, she exhibited signs of sadistic amusement, hysterically laughing during the infection of Rake and Sahara. Despite sustaining a blow from a frying pan, Sandee demonstrated strategic intelligence by feigning death. Additionally, she attempted a kamikaze attack with grenades, employing eerie singing to lure targets, indicative of a level of calculated behavior that challenges the assumption of Arachnids as mindless creatures.
- Private Kipper Tor's assimilation process was not instantaneous. Furthermore, he was observed consuming substantial quantities of sugar at a later point. Sahara noted a subtle shift in his behavior. Notably, Tor opted to walk directly into rifle fire rather than employ a weapon himself.
- Privates Ottis Brick and Billy Otter were infected nearly simultaneously through the use of Peck's adult bug. Brick was subjected to attacks by multiple offspring. Notably, he chose to advance directly into rifle fire rather than utilizing a weapon. On the other hand, Billy was overt in his intent to infect both of his targets. He demonstrated reverence towards Control Bugs, the Brain Bug, and the God Bug. Remarkably, he displayed insensitivity to pain, particularly evident in his ability to withstand multiple instances of blunt force trauma to the head.
- General Jack Shepherd holds the primary role and highest authority within the unit, serving as its commanding officer, although Captain Dax is noted for his exceptional combat prowess. Shepherd's infection by Soda occurs off-screen, indicating that the process of takeover is not immediate. Subsequently, Shepherd divulges Bug motivations and beliefs, a decision deemed impractical given the presence of two heavily armed hostiles. His decision to consider infecting Sahara, rather than simply eliminating her, raises questions regarding whether these choices stemmed from human or Bug influence, or perhaps a combination of both, although such determinations remain speculative
- Sergeant Dede Rake's infection presents a notably intricate case. Despite undergoing implantation, Rake retains a notable degree of human intelligence and consciousness, enabling resistance against the control exerted by the Bug. Notably, Rake employs an unknown substance in a syringe to counteract the effects of the infestation. While Rake strikes Jill Sandee with a frying pan, the ultimate fate of the victim remains unconfirmed. Rake subsequently plays a pivotal role in resolving the crisis and rescuing Captain Dax from potential infection. However, despite these efforts, Rake chooses to take her own life, an action that fails to eradicate the Bug, which survives even this drastic measure. Noteworthy is the observation that the Bug has exhibited significant growth, doubling in size since its initial implantation, while also reducing the size of its legs to stubs, indicating an ongoing transformation within the host body.
Media[]
Appears[]
Roughnecks: Starship Troopers Chronicles[]
Control Bugs are small, roughly the size of human hands. They seize control of a host by attaching themselves to the spinal cord, becoming a telepathic conduit for Brain Bugs. The range of their telepathic abilities has never been tested in the field. While having very little offensive capability on their own, they are very agile and difficult to hit with weapons.
They are first encountered on Tophet, controlling the Skinnies.
Appearances[]
See also[]
- Carrion Bug - A Bug able to host inside a Warrior Bug.