Looks can be deceiving: Cryptic species and phenotypic variation in Rhodnius spp., chagas disease vectors

Abstract

The aim of this chapter was to highlight the importance of applying morphological, ecological, behavioral, and molecular methods to analyze taxonomic problems among Chagas disease vector species. We structured the chapter as follows: an introductory section about the disease and the reason why studies on cryptic species, phenotypic variation, and ecological niches in Rhodnius spp. are relevant for the interruption of disease transmission and two sections containing general aspects of Chagas disease in three Latin American biomes (Amazon, Cerrado, and Caatinga), and taxonomic problem-solving examples. Finally, we present a section containing future trends in molecular systematics and behavior studies that might be useful for developing new vector control and surveillance strategies. Although this chapter is focused on insect vector species, any reader interested in ecology and molecular systematics will find valuable guidance on how to design a study that aims to answer taxonomic questions involving closely related species.