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Rhodnius robustus in Bolivia identified by its wings
A Matias1, J X de la Rive, M Torrez
1INLASA, La Paz, Bolivia.
Memorias Do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz
|October 31, 2001
Summary
This study identified an unknown Rhodnius wing specimen from Bolivia as Rhodnius robustus using morphometric analysis. This confirms the presence of R. robustus in Bolivia and demonstrates morphometrics
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Zoology
- Taxonomy
Background:
- Accurate identification of insect species is crucial for ecological and epidemiological studies.
- Rhodnius species are important vectors of Chagas disease, necessitating precise taxonomic classification.
- Previous records suggested the presence of Rhodnius prolixus and Rhodnius pictipes in Bolivia, but R. robustus was not definitively documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify an unidentified Rhodnius wing specimen collected in Alto Beni, Bolivia.
- To compare the specimen's morphometric characteristics with known Bolivian Rhodnius species.
- To confirm the presence of Rhodnius robustus in Bolivia using wing morphometrics.
Main Methods:
- Wing morphometric analysis of an unidentified Rhodnius specimen.
- Comparative analysis using discriminant analysis of wing shape.
- Inclusion of wing size and shape data for taxonomic identification.
Main Results:
- The unidentified wing showed clear differences from Rhodnius stali and Rhodnius pictipes.
- The specimen exhibited fewer differences with Rhodnius prolixus but no significant differences with Rhodnius robustus.
- Combining wing size and shape data definitively identified the specimen as Rhodnius robustus.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms the presence of Rhodnius robustus in Bolivia.
- Wing morphometrics is a viable method for the taxonomic identification of individual specimens, even partial ones.
- This technique can aid in understanding insect distribution and vector populations.