Triatoma barberi Usinger is a widely recognized vector of the protozoa Trypanosoma cruzi. The determination of its presence in the rural houses is made by direct observation of adults, nymphs, exuviae or eggs. For this reason, egg structural characteristics could facilitate the differentiation and identification of species that inhabit such environments. In here, the morphologic characteristics of eggs of T. barberi are described and analyzed with special attention to the anterior pole of the egg. The structural analysis of eggs by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the presence of a wide and rough chorion edge, which contain aeropyles and micropyles. A deep spermatic canal between the endochorion and exochorion, and a trabecular network in the interior were also observed. The operculum showed cells with irregular growth and undefined polygonal shape. Externally, the operculum cells forms two rings of projections that surround a single extension located to the center. The cellular projections resemble respiratory horns, although the presence of aeropyles was not observed. The chorion structural characteristics can help to identify and separate close species in the Triatominae subfamily.

Current globalization policies demand animal welfare standards on animal transportation. In spite of international tendencies to commercialize meat cuts while decreasing live animal transit, transport is still one of the major problems in terms of animal welfare, besides carcass and meat by-products' quality. The present review analyzes, in general terms, the different definitions on animal welfare and factors affecting pig welfare in transit. Several case studies are referred to as examples, showing the animal response to stress during transport and its effects on both meat quality and the economic impact. In addition, legal requirements and Mexican regulations for pig transportation are also described. Information in regard to swine stress and welfare in transit, considers a number of factors that alter the animal metabolic homeostasis with subsequent negative effects on pork quality. It is conclude that knowledge on basic animal behavioral and physiological needs during transport, as well as a suitable training of personnel, are necessary for reducing animal welfare problems. Last but not least, some recommendations on handling practices are given in order to improve swine welfare during transit.

En el marco actual de la globalización, hablar de transporte animal conlleva realizar prácticas que mejoren el bienestar animal, aunque existe la tendencia mundial de incrementar el mercado de la carne en cortes, así como disminuir el comercio de animales vivos, el transporte constituye uno de los factores más preocupantes en términos del bienestar animal, además del impacto en la calidad de la canal y los subproductos respectivos. En la presente revisión se analizan, en términos generales, las distintas definiciones de bienestar animal, así como los factores más importantes que alteran el bienestar de los cerdos durante el transporte; se describen los requisitos legales y la normatividad mexicana para el transporte de animales, así como varios estudios de la respuesta fisiológica del animal durante condiciones adversas del transporte, se señalan, además, las repercusiones sobre la calidad de la carne y su impacto económico. La información con respecto al estrés de los cerdos y su bienestar durante el transporte, considera numerosos factores que alteran el equilibrio homeostático animal y que propician efectos negativos sobre calidad de la carne. Se concluye que tanto el conocimiento de la biología de la especie, como un entrenamiento del personal, son necesarios para disminuir los problemas de bienestar. Finalmente, se recomiendan algunas prácticas derivadas de los hallazgos presentados, con el fin de que se mejore el bienestar de los cerdos en tránsito.