INTRODUCTION:
This communication reports the colonization of
Panstrongylus megistus
in an urban area of the municipality of Taboão da Serra in the metropolitan region of São Paulo.
METHODS:
After receiving a notification from the population, entomological research comprising active search, collection, identification, and examination of triatomines was conducted. Wild animals were captured and examined.
RESULTS:
A colony of triatomines was found to be associated with dogs in the backyard of the property.
CONCLUSIONS:
The colonization of
P. megistus
shows the potential for their occupation of artificial ecotopes, which may pose a risk to the human population.
We report the first known occurrence of Panstrongylus megistus (Burmeister, 1835) (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae) in the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo, Brazil. In 2018, adult specimens were sent by residents to the competent authorities and, in the inspection of the property, a large focus associated with a marsupial nest was found. This finding reinforces the importance of the species in the state of São Paulo, serves as an alert for epidemiological surveillance and extends the species colonization area in the state of São Paulo.
INTRODUCTION:
This communication reports on the occurrence of colonization by
Panstrongylus megistus in an urban park in the municipality of
São Paulo
, Brazil.
METHODS:
Entomological research includes active search for vectors based on
notifications by the population and identification and examination of
insects.
RESULTS:
A colony of triatomines was found to be associated with enclosed birds.
CONCLUSIONS:
The occurrence of
P. megistus
has already been reported in
the city of São Paulo; however, reports of colonization by this species
provide evidence of its potential for the occupation of artificial ecotopes,
which may pose a risk to the human population.
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