Common Name |
Kissing bugs, Conenose bugs, Triatomines |
Scientific Name |
Triatoma |
Size |
1/2 to 3/4 inches long |
Colour |
Dark brown to black |
Description |
- It sometimes has a small tan edge around its abdominal region.
- The wings are held flat over the back at rest.
- The head has 4 segmented antennae and a 3 segmented beak that extends
backward below the body.
|
Habitat |
The insect's usual habitat is in or near the nests of
packrats or other rodents. |
Lifecycle |
- Triatomines undergo incomplete metamorphosis(includes three
distinct stages: the egg, nymph, and the adult stage)
- A wingless first instar nymph hatches from an egg and passes
successively through 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th instars.
- Finally, the fifth instar turns into an adult, acquiring two pair of wings.
|
Disease Transmitted |
Chagas Disease |
Symptoms |
- Swelling of the face
- Fever
- Swelling of other areas and sometimes nervous systems
Bites: itching, swelling, red blotches, welts, rashes, fainting
spells, nausea, diarrhea and anaphylactic reactions |
Type of Damage |
Bites from kissing bugs normally occur at night while their prey is
asleep. The bite is usually painless, but may swell and itch for a
couple of days.
|
Sources / Breeding |
Breeding areas such as rodent and bird nests and trash piles in or
near houses
|
Prevention |
- Use weather stripping and caulking to close cracks and crevices
- Seal openings where bugs can get it
- Fix structural problems that allow entry
- Screen all windows and vents
- Insect proof pet entrances
- Keep lights off at night by doors, windows and on patios when not needed
|
Control |
- Remove rodent nests that are close to your home
- Remove firewood piles and debris
- Check beds at night and shake out bedding
- Keep beds at least one foot from walls
|
Chemical Treatment |
- Make sure to try to remove hiding places and seal openings before you use chemicals.
- A total release pyrethrin spray and insecticide dusts may help.
|