Artificial Feeding of Triatoma Infestans (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) with Defibrinated Blood

Abstract

An artificial feeding method for Triatoma infestans using defibrinated chicken and bovine blood was developed. The plastic film used (Resinite® RMF-61HY) allows feeding from the 1st nymphal instar and has practical advantages over latex films. Feeding of defibrinated whole blood to bugs through an artificial membrane resulted in development comparable to control groups fed on live chickens. The method was tested for 20 weeks, with data recorded for mortality, molting, oviposition and egg viability; no significant differences (P > 0.05) were found between the artificial feeding method and feeding on live chickens.