Dangerous appetite: The impact of Trypanosoma cruzi infection on the feeding and defecation behaviors of Triatoma dimidiata sensu lato (Latreille, 1811).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, is primarily transmitted through the infected feces of blood-sucking bugs known as triatomines. As a result, its transmission is closely linked to the feeding and defecation behaviors of these insects. T. cruzi can alter various physiological processes in its vectors, including those involved in parasite acquisition, development, and excretion. This study aimed to assess the feeding and defecation behaviors of Triatoma dimidiata sensu lato (Latreille,1811), one of the main vectors, in relation to its T. cruzi infection status.

Methodology/principal findings

Using both T. cruzi-infected and uninfected T. dimidiata, we measured various variables related to feeding and defecation behaviors. Notably, infected i

SUBMITTER: May-Concha IJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12758822 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature