Epicuticular lipids induce aggregation in Chagas disease vectors
2009
How Insect Oils Help Bugs Stick Together
Sample size: 10
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Alicia N Lorenzo, Juan R Girotti, Sergio J Mijailovsky, M Patricia Juárez
Primary Institution: Universidad de Buenos Aires
Hypothesis
The study aims to identify the major components of the contact aggregation pheromone in triatomines.
Conclusion
The detection of contact aggregation pheromones has practical application in Chagas disease vector control.
Supporting Evidence
- Insects were significantly aggregated around papers impregnated with the epicuticular lipid extracts.
- Only the free fatty acid fraction promoted significant bug aggregation.
- Octadecanoic acid showed a significant assembling effect in the concentration range tested.
- Hexacosanoic acid was significantly attractant at low doses but repellent at higher doses.
Takeaway
This study found that certain oils from bugs help them stick together, which can be useful for controlling disease-carrying insects.
Methodology
The study used a binary choice test in a circular arena to analyze the aggregation response of T. infestans nymphs to different lipid extracts.
Participant Demographics
Fifth instar nymphs of Triatoma infestans.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website