Feeding and Defecation Patterns of Rhodnius nasutus (Hemiptera; Reduviidae), A Triatomine Native to an Area Endemic for Chagas Disease in the State of Ceará, Brazil

摘要: The importance of Rhodnius nasutus in the transmission Chagas disease northeastern Brazil was investigated regarding feeding and defecation patterns this triatomine under laboratory conditions. An average 30 samples were studied for each instar, from fourth-instar nymphs onward. On average, 86.4% started after less than 10 minutes. In terms duration feeding, 53.3% fourth instar nymphs, 81.9% fifth-instar 21.9% males, 36.7% females fed more 15 all groups, there insects that defecated urinated during feeding; adult males most least. results demonstrate R. may be considered an efficient T. cruzi vector because it avidly searches a food source, has lengthy time with low probability interruption achieves high percentage engorgement.