Ecological aspects of South American trypanosomiasis: XX - Development and annual cycles of Panstrongylus megistus colonies in artificial ecotopes in the peri and extradomiciliary environment

Abstract

Spontaneous colonies of Panstrongylus megistus developed in experimental fowlhouses were observed for the conditions of their development, variation and permanence of their components. Data were also obtained on their annual cycles and survival. The annual cyclical rhythm showed an increase of adult production in the last quarter of the year, with a similar pattern of females findings in the dwellings. This cyclic colony dynamic makes possible the identification of the "infestant" period for the "susceptible" domiciliary environment composed of the previously cleaned dwellings. The reinfestation risk from extradomiciliary P. megistus in this Southern region of Brazil occurs at this time. These information allows their utilization for surveillance activities to prevent house reinfestation.