Massive invasion on a Triatominae insectarium (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae) by Attagenus fasciatus (Thunberg, 1795) (Coleoptera: Dermestidae: Attageninae)

ABSTRACT

Background:

Triatominae are vectors of the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. This study aims to report an infestation on Triatominae colonies by a beetle, previously identified as a pest.

Methods:

The management of these colonies should be improved to maximize their usefulness, and factors that may cause harm to them should be avoided as much as possible.

Results:

This is the first report on a coleopteran infestation on living Triatominae colonies worldwide.

Conclusions:

The present record provides an important warning to researchers who maintain insectaries in general, especially those who rear triatomines, to carry protective measures against such invasions.

Keywords:
Living collection; Triatominae insectarium; Biological collections; Conservation; Pests