Exploring the Hidden World of Vectors of Chagas Disease: A Fascinating Look at the Taxonomic Aspects of the Psammolestes Genus (Hemiptera, Triatominae)

Abstract

Chagas disease (CD) is a neglected illness affecting approximately seven million individuals, with vector transmission occurring via triatomine bugs. The Rhodniini tribe comprises 24 species, grouped into the Rhodnius and Psammolestes genera. Given the importance of accurately identifying CD vectors, the taxonomy of Psammolestes spp. was revisited using morphological and morphometric data. Specimens of P. tertius, P. coreodes, and P. arthuri were collected, and the morphological characteristics of the head, thorax, abdomen, and eggs were analyzed. Morphometric studies of eggs were also conducted. Dichotomous keys allowing for the differentiation of Psammolestes spp. were elaborated based on adult insect and egg morphological characteristics. Through these studies, it was possible to differentiate the three Psammolestes species and confirm that this genus should not be classified under the Rhodnius genus, contributing to Rhodniini taxonomy.

Taxonomic reassessment of Rhodnius zeledoni Jurberg, Rocha & Galvão: a morphological and morphometric analysis comparing its taxonomic relationship with Rhodnius domesticus Neiva & Pinto

“…The tribe Rhodniini contains two genera, Rhodnius Stål, 1859 with 21 species, and Psammolestes Bergroth, 1911, with three species, both with species predominantly have arboreal lifestyles. Rhodnius species live predominantly in palm trees, and those of the genus Psammolestes are strictly associated with nests of different bird species belonging to the families Dendrocolaptidae, Troglodytidae, Furnariidae and Icteridae [ 4 ]. While these genera are well characterized and can be easily differentiated from other triatomines, the species belonging to each of them are difficult to differentiate.…”