Kissing Bugs
Triatominae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Cimicomorpha
- Family: Reduviidae
- Subfamily: Triatominae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Triatominae: /traɪˌætəˈmɪni/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
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Summary
Triatominae, or kissing bugs, are a subfamily of the Reduviidae known for their blood-feeding habits and their role as vectors of Chagas disease. They are primarily found in the Americas and are adapted to live in sheltered environments with vertebrate hosts.
Physical Characteristics
5-45 mm (most species 20-28 mm), with adults acquiring two pairs of wings in later life stages.
Identification Tips
Most species are characterized by their elongated bodies and the prominent rostrum used for feeding on blood.
Habitat
Sheltered habitats shared with nesting vertebrates, such as caves, logs, nests, and human habitations.
Distribution
Widespread in the Americas, from southern Argentina to central United States, with a few species in Asia and a single pantropical species (Triatoma rubrofasciata) in Africa.
Diet
Mostly feed on the blood of various tetrapods; some species may feed on invertebrates.
Life Cycle
Undergo incomplete metamorphosis, progressing through five instars, with the first instar being wingless and very small (as small as 2 mm).
Reproduction
Reproduction details not specified; typically involve mating behaviors common to hemipteran insects.
Ecosystem Role
As haematophagous insects, they play a role in the ecosystem as blood feeders and potential vectors for parasites, particularly Trypanosoma cruzi.
Economic Impact
In areas where they are vectors of Chagas disease, they can impact human health and contribute to economic costs associated with disease management.
Cultural Significance
Known locally by various names across the Americas, including barbeiros, vinchucas, and chupão, they hold cultural significance in areas affected by Chagas disease due to their impact on human health.
Health Concerns
They are important vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease; bites can induce allergic reactions including anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals.
Evolution
Hematophagy has evolved only once within the Reduviidae, indicating a strong monophyly of the subfamily.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often referred to as 'kissing bugs' due to their feeding habits around human mouths, leading to misunderstandings about their behavior and prevalence.
Tags
- Triatominae
- Kissing Bugs
- Chagas Disease
- Hemiptera
- Reduviidae