Triatominae

Definition

A subfamily of blood-feeding reduviid bugs, some species of which are vectors of Chagas disease.

Etymology

From the Greek words 'tria' (three) and 'tomos' (cut, section), referring to the three-segmented structure of their bodies.

Example

Triatominae bugs are commonly known as kissing bugs due to their habit of biting humans on the lips and eyes.

Related Terms

• Reduviidae
• Chagas disease
• Kissing bugs

Usage Notes

Triatominae is a large subfamily with many species, some of which are important vectors of Chagas disease.