The effects of various levels of food deprivation on the oogenesis of P. megistus was studied. Immediately after the imaginal ecdysis, six groups (GI to GVI) of 15 couples each were formed. Each group was fed as follows: GI -- on days 5 and 25; G-II -- on days 5 and 35; GIII -- on days 5 and 45; GIV -- on day 20; GV -- on day 30; GVI -- on day 40 after the imaginal ecdysis. After the established fasting period, all groups were fed fortnightly. Fifteen couples were in the control group (CG), which was fed on the day 5 after the imaginal ecdysis and subsequently fortnightly. GI produced more eggs, matings and fertile eggs. GII had longer life spans, higher fecundity and hatchings. GIII had a shorter life span, low fecundity, fertility and hatchings. GVI presented the least favorable results for all parameters, except for the pre-oviposition period. The CG had the best results in all parameters when compared with all experimental groups.
Triatominae; Food deprivation; Reproduction; Insect, vectors; Chagas, disease; Panstrongylus
