The number of families of Triatoma dimidiata in a Guatemalan house

Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 2007 May;102(2):221-3. doi: 10.1590/s0074-02762007005000001.

Abstract

Triatoma dimidiata is an important vector of Chagas disease in Guatemala. To help understand the biology and population dynamics of the insect, we estimated the number of full sibling families living in one house. Forty one families with an average size of 2.17 individuals were detected using random amplification of polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction genetic markers. This result suggests high levels of migration of the vector, polyandry, and a significant capability for spreading the disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chagas Disease / transmission
  • Gene Frequency / genetics
  • Genetic Variation
  • Guatemala
  • Housing*
  • Humans
  • Insect Vectors / classification*
  • Insect Vectors / genetics
  • Population Dynamics
  • Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Technique
  • Triatoma / classification*
  • Triatoma / genetics