Brief references to the external bio-ecological and morphological systematics of triatomines, especially Triatoma infestans and Triatoma sordida

Abstract

?Brief references to the external bio-ecological and morphological systematics of triatomines, especially Triatoma infestans and Triatoma sordida?

This is an introduction to the subject assigning special importance to the Tryatomine bugs, among which are found vector species of T. cruzi. Through a quick and systematic survey of the Order Hemiptera, it is established that in Bolivia at this date we have identified three genera with thirteen species, of which two are responsible for transmitting ?trypanosomiasis americana? throughout the greater part of the national territory.

The genus Triatoma is described, with special stress on external morphological characteristics, geographic distribution and numerous bioecological data. The species Triatoma infestans and Triatoma sordida are also described in detail considering external morphology, biology and ecology. We note that the micro hymenoptera Telenomus fariai is incapable of achieving an affective biological control of the mentionned species due to the fact that its diurnal habits prevent it to penetrate in cracks and dark corners where the vector?s eggs may be found. The paper ends with a dichotomic keys for genera and species of Tritomine from Bolivia.