Studies on the evolution cycle of Triatoma arthurneivai under laboratory conditions (Hemiptera, Reduviidae)

Abstract

Data about Triatoma arthurneivai reared in laboratory from eggs laids by sylvatic females are reported. Laboratory conditions were maintaned at 25°C of temperature and 60-70% of relative humidity. Blood meal were furnished weekly from white mice sources. Eggs ecloded at a proportion of 92.8%. Differences were observed between triatomid reared in a individual or in a jointly manner. They were maintened in groups of 2-9 specimens each. The egg to adult times were 314.4 and 228.3 days for these two groups. Males reared more faster spent 205.4 days from egg to adult; females took 274.3 days. Some hypotesis were presented for explaining these differences, but no conclusions were reached. It was concluded that new investigations to explain the phenomena and help to understand better the dynamics of the South American trypanosomiasis in their natural foci should be performed.