Ecological aspects of American cutaneous leishmaniasis: 3. Natural observations on the daily rhythm of the activity of Psychodopygus intermedius in forested and neighbouring environments

Abstract

The daily activity of Psychodopygus intermedius was measured for the first time, within and outside of a residual forest in the Ribeira Valley, S. Paulo State, Brazil. The results showed nocturnal activity in both environments, with different times of maximum activity occuring between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. However, the most intense activity continued to take place outside the forest. A strong preference for humans seems to have contributed to Ps. intermedius' ubiquitous distribution. The importance of this fact lies in the possibility of there existing a close feeding association Ps. intermedius - Man. Hence cutaneous leishmaniasis infection may take place in the household environment.