ABSTRACT
Background:
Triatominae are vectors of the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. This study aims to report an infestation on Triatominae colonies by a beetle, previously identified as a pest.
Methods:
The management of these colonies should be improved to maximize their usefulness, and factors that may cause harm to them should be avoided as much as possible.
Results:
This is the first report on a coleopteran infestation on living Triatominae colonies worldwide.
Conclusions:
The present record provides an important warning to researchers who maintain insectaries in general, especially those who rear triatomines, to carry protective measures against such invasions.
Keywords:
Living collection; Triatominae insectarium; Biological collections; Conservation; Pests