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.

Abstract Zelurus galvaoi sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Reduviinae) is described from Peru, based on a male and a female specimens. Photographs of type specimens and short notes on the characteristics of Zelurus montivagus Lent & Wygodzinsky, 1955, Zelurus abalosi Lent & Wygodzinsky, 1951 and Zelurus singularis Lent & Wygodzinsky, 1947, related to the new species, are presented. Zelurus abalosi is recorded from Bolivia for the first time.

Resumen Basado en un macho y una hembra se describe a Zelurus galvaoi sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Reduviinae) de Perú. Se presentan fotografías de especímenes tipo y notas breves sobre las características de Zelurus montivagus Lent y Wygodzinsky, 1955, Zelurus abalosi Lent y Wygodzinsky, 1951 y Zelurus singularis Lent y Wygodzinsky, 1947, relacionadas con la nueva especie. Se reporta por primera vez la presencia de Zelurus abalosi en Bolivia.

Abstract Seven plants belonging to Apocynaceae are recorded as new hosts of Oncopeltus (Erythrischius) unifasciatellus Slater, 1964 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Lygaeidae): Mandevilla laxa (Ruiz & Pav.) Woodson, Mandevilla pentlandiana (A.DC.) Woodson, Oxypetalum appendiculatum Mart., Oxypetalum balansae Malme, Oxypetalum pannosum Decne. and Oxypetalum teyucuarense Farinaccio & Keller-A. in Argentina, and Gomphocarpus physocarpa (E.Mey.) Schlechter in Brazil. Additionally, new geographical occurrences of O. unifasciatellus in the Argentinian provinces of Mendoza and Misiones are recorded.

Resumen Se registran siete plantas pertenecientes a Apocynaceae como nuevos hospedantes de Oncopeltus (Erythrischius) unifasciatellus Slater, 1964 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Lygaeidae): Mandevilla laxa (Ruiz y Pav.) Woodson, Mandevilla pentlandiana (A.DC.) Woodson, Oxypetalum appendiculatum Mart., Oxypetalum balansae Malme, Oxypetalum pannosum Decne. y Oxypetalum teyucuarense Farinaccio y Keller-A. en Argentina, y Gomphocarpus physocarpa (E.Mey.) Schlechter en Brasil. Adicionalmente, se registran nuevas ocurrencias geográficas de O. unifasciatellus en las provincias argentinas de Mendoza y Misiones.

Abstract Almost all reduviids are predators; however, recent observations have shown that certain reduviids, particularly members of tribe Harpactorini (Harpactorinae) may be associated with specific plants as a strategy of predation and complementary nectarivory. These observations on the occurrence of the use of nectar as food source by various species of Reduviidae, mostly Harpactorini, in Argentina (Misiones), are recorded here. Additional records of oviposition and preying by Harpactorini and Bactrodinae species on certain plants are also provided.

Resumen Casi todos los redúvidos son depredadores; sin embargo, varias observaciones han demostrado que algunas especies, en particular los miembros de la tribu Harpactorini (Harpactorinae), pueden estar asociados con plantas específicas como estrategia de predación y complementariamente la nectarivoría. Aquí se registran observaciones recientes del uso del néctar como fuente alimentaria por varias especies de Reduviidae, en su mayoría Harpactorini, en Argentina (Misiones). También se proporcionan registros adicionales de oviposición y depredación por especies de Harpactorini y Bactrodinae en ciertas plantas.

Abstract The predatory activities of Apiomerus duckei Costa Lima, Seabra & Hathaway, 1951, Apiomerus pilipes (Fabricius, 1787) and Apiomerus luctuosus Costa Lima, Seabra & Hathaway, 1951 (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Harpactorinae: Apiomerini) on orchid bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Apinae: Euglossini) in odoriferous traps in the influence area of Santo Antonio Hydroelectric Power Plant, Rondonia State, Brazil, and of Cosmoclopius annulosus Stal, 1872 (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Harpactorinae: Harpactorini) on the bee Ceratina rupestris Holmberg, 1884 (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Apinae: Xylocopini: Ceratinina), in an experimental area cultivated with canola in Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, are recorded by the first time.

Resumen Se registran por primera vez las actividades depredadoras de Apiomerus duckei Costa Lima, Seabra y Hathaway, 1951, Apiomerus pilipes (Fabricius, 1787) y Apiomerus luctuosus Costa Lima, Seabra y Hathaway, 1951 (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Harpactorinae: Apiomerini) sobre abejas orquídeas (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Apinae: Euglossini) en trampas odoríferas ubicadas en el área de influencia de la Central Hidroeléctrica Santo Antonio (HEP), Estado de Rondonia, Brasil, y de Cosmoclopius annulosus Stal, 1872 (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Harpactorinae: Harpactorini) sobre la abeja Ceratina rupestris Holmberg, 1884 (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Apinae: Xylocopini: Ceratinina), en un área experimental cultivada con canola en Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brasil.

Abstract The epidemiological significance and biological character of Triatominae are frequently explored, but errors in morphological terminology are common. We discuss the importance of using morphological terminology correctly. The incorrect use of the term "wing" to describe the hemelytron in the study of Triatominae is pointed out. The correct and standard use of the term hemelytron (pl. hemelytra) to describe the forewings is suggested.

Resumen La importancia epidemiológica y el carácter biológico de Triatominae se exploran con frecuencia, pero los errores en la terminología morfológica son comunes. Se discute la importancia de utilizar correctamente la terminología morfológica. Se señala el uso incorrecto del término "ala" para describir el hemiélitro en el estudio de Triatominae. Se sugiere el uso correcto y estándar del término hemiélitro (pl. hemiélitros) para describir las alas anteriores.

Abstract Phasmatocoris ecuadorensis sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Emesinae) is described from Ecuador based on a male specimen. Phasmatocoris Breddin, 1904 is recorded from Ecuador for the first time. Short taxonomical notes on Phasmatocoris praecellens (Bergroth, 1911) are provided. An updated key to the species of Phasmatocoris is presented.

Resumen Basado en un ejemplar macho se describe a Phasmatocoris ecuadorensis sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Emesinae) de Ecuador. Phasmatocoris Breddin, 1904 es registrado por primera vez para Ecuador. Se proveen breves notas taxonómicas sobre Phasmatocoris praecellens (Bergroth, 1911) y una clave actualizada para las especies de Phasmatocoris.

Abstract The occurrences of Nitornus lobulatus Stal, 1859 and Nitornus parkoi (Costa Lima & Campos Seabra, 1945) from French Guiana and of N. parkoi (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Stenopodainae) from Surinam are reported by the first time. The discovery of these species broadens their known geographic distribution. Brief comments on bionomics information and further discussion of the limited data currently available for these assassin bug species are provided.

Resumen Se reporta por primera vez la presencia de Nitornus lobulatus Stal, 1859 y Nitornus parkoi (Costa Lima y Campos Seabra, 1945) en la Guayana Francesa y de N. parkoi (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Stenopodainae) en Suriname. El descubrimiento de estas especies amplía sus distribuciones geográficas conocidas. Se proporcionan breves comentarios sobre la información bionómica y una discusión adicional de los limitados datos disponibles actualmente para estas especies de insectos asesinos.

Abstract Aedes aegypti is currently the mosquito with major impact on public health in Brazil and a proven vector of several emerging arboviruses. By consequence, its name is frequently being spoken by lay people of the media and general public, as well as by researchers in this country both in general media and academic events. However, the generic name Aedes, contrary to its etymological origin and worldwide correct pronunciation (“A-e-des”), has been frequently mispronounced as “Edes” on many occasions by media spokespersons and by researchers and lay people in Brazil. However, based on historical and linguistic evidence, it is confirmed here that the correct historical pronunciation (A-e-des) must be maintained and observed in Brazil as it is enunciated all over the World.

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The occurrence of Microtriatoma borbai in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil is reported by the first time. METHODS: A triatomine specimen collected in a hybrid eucalyptus crop in the municipality of Aracruz, Espírito Santo state was found to be a male M. borbai. RESULTS: This finding expands the geographical distribution of M. borbai from four to five Brazilian states. It is the first report of M. borbai occurrence inside a eucalyptus crop. CONCLUSIONS: The occurrence of M. borbai in the state of Espírito Santo broadens the geographical distribution of this species in southeastern Brazil.

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Chagas disease is caused by the protozoa Trypanosoma cruzi. Its main reservoir is the domestic dog, especially in rural areas with favorable characteristics for vector establishment and proliferation. The aims of this study were to collect data, survey and map the fauna, and identify T. cruzi infection in triatomines, as well as to assess the presence of anti-T. cruzi antibodies in dogs in rural areas of the municipality of Mossoró, Brazil. METHODS: An active entomologic research was conducted to identify adult specimens through an external morphology dichotomous key. The analysis of natural infection by T. cruzi in the insects was performed by isolation in culture and polymerase chain reaction. The antibody testing for T. cruzi in dogs was performed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and indirect immunofluorescence assay. RESULTS: A total of 68 triatomines were captured, predominantly the Triatoma brasiliensis brasiliensis (Neiva 1911) species. The vector mapping displayed areas with greater risk for parasite transmission. Of the examined triatomines (51 specimens), 41.2% (21/51) were positive on polymerase chain reaction, and all were negative on culture. In the serum testing, 11% (25/218) of dogs were seropositive, but no association was found between the serologic results and the presence and infection by T. cruzi in triatomines. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated the movement of T. cruzi in the studied area, by the presence of vectors and naturally infected domestic reservoirs. The mapping of the studied rural area demonstrates the risk of disease transmission.

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Environmental modifications caused by human activities have led to changes in mosquito vector populations, and sylvatic species have adapted to breeding in urban areas. METHODS: Mosquitoes were collected using ovitraps in three sampling sites in the Atlantic Forest in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. RESULTS: We collected 2,162 Culicidae specimens. Haemagogus janthinomys and Haemagogus leucocelaenus, both sylvatic yellow fever virus vectors, were the most common species found. CONCLUSION: There is a potential for the transmission of arboviruses in and around these natural reserves. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain entomological surveillance programs in the region.

Regiões como o Pantanal brasileiro, que apresentam fatores como riqueza de fauna silvestre incluindo circulação de aves migratórias e condições ambientais e climáticas favoráveis à proliferação de artrópodes estão potencialmente sujeitas à circulação de arbovírus. Entretanto, poucos trabalhos foram realizados acerca da presença de arbovírus em potenciais vetores no Pantanal. Neste sentido o principal objetivo deste trabalho foi conduzir uma investigação preliminar para presença de arbovírus em amostragens de culicídeos capturados na Sub-região da Nhecolândia no Pantanal Sul. Um total de 3684 mosquitos foi capturado, dos quais 78 grupos compondo uma amostragem de 1789 espécimes foram submetidos às técnicas de isolamento viral e RT-PCR para os mais importantes arbovírus no Brasil. Simultaneamente, 70 espécimes de carrapatos capturados durante hematofagia em cavalos também foram submetidos à pesquisa viral. Não houve isolamento viral em nenhuma amostra analisada e os resultados de detecção de ácido nucléico viral foram também negativos. Entretanto, foram identificadas 22 espécies de culicídeos, dez das quais previamente reportadas como vetores de importantes arbovírus. A competência vetorial de espécies capturadas durante hematofagia em humanos e cavalos aliada ao relato prévio de circulação de arbovírus sugerem a Sub-região da Nhecolândia como uma importante área de vigilância para arbovírus no Centro-Oeste do Brasil.

In view of the high circulation of migratory birds and the environmental and climatic conditions which favor the proliferation of arthropods, the Brazilian Pantanal is susceptible to circulation of arboviruses. However, the amount of data concerning arbovirus vectors in this area is scarce; therefore the aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary investigation of Culicidae species in the Nhecolândia Sub-region of South Pantanal, Brazil and their potential importance in the arbovirus transmission. A total of 3684 specimens of mosquitoes were captured, 1689 of which caught in the rainy season of 2007, were divided into 78 pools and submitted to viral isolation, Semi-Nested RT-PCR and Nested RT-PCR, with a view to identifying the most important arboviruses in Brazil. Simultaneously, 70 specimens of ticks found blood-feeding on horses were also submitted to the same virological assays. No virus was isolated and viral nucleic-acid detection by RT-PCR was also negative. Nevertheless, a total of 22 Culicidae species were identified, ten of which had previously been reported as vectors of important arboviruses. The diversity of species found blood-feeding on human and horse hosts together with the arboviruses circulation previously reported suggest that the Nhecolândia Sub-region of South Pantanal is an important area for arbovirus surveillance in Brazil.

Ghilianella beckeri sp. nov. de Emesinae proveniente do Estado de Rondônia, Brasil é descrita. A espécie mais parecida com G. beckeri sp. nov. é G. approximata (McAtee & Malloch 1925). Machos de G . beckeri sp. nov. podem ser separados dos de G. approximata porque estes últimos possuem: (1) o sétimo tergito muito mais curto, ultrapassando levemente o pigóforo e com tegumento liso; (2) processo mediano posterior do pigóforo bifurcado; e (3) parâmeros inermes. Fêmeas de G. approximata podem ser distinguidas das de G . beckeri n. sp. por possuírem: (1) as expansões do quinto tergito abdominal distintamente dentro das margens laterais do disco; (2) o sétimo tergito mais longo do que largo; e (3) oitavo tergito semicircular, com discreta carena mediana.

Ghilianella beckeri n. sp. of Emesinae from Rondônia State, Brazil is described. The most similar species to G. beckeri sp. nov. is G. approximata (McAtee & Malloch 1925). Males of G . beckeri n. sp. can be separated from G. approximata because the latter has: (1) seventh tergite much shorter, slightly surpassing pygophore, and not wrinkled; (2), bifurcated medial posterior process of the pygophore; and (3) parameres without spines. Females of G. approximata can be distinguished from those of G . beckeri n. sp. since they have: (1) the expansions of the fifth abdominal tergum distinctly within lateral margins of disk; (2) the seventh tergite longer than wide; and (3) the eighth tergite semicircular and lightly carinate medially.

Abstract TThe occurrence of Labedera hirtipes Walker, 1855 (Walker, 1855) (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae) caterpillars and Nilio barthiCosta Lima & Seabra, 1954 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) beetle on Miconia cinnamomifolia (Dc.) Naud. (Melastomataceae), in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, is presented by the first time.

Resumo Relata-se pela primeira vez a ocorrência de lagartas de Labedera hirtipes Walker, 1855 (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae) e do besouro Nilio barthiCosta Lima & Seabra, 1954 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) em Miconia cinnamomifolia (Dc.) Naud. (Melastomataceae) no Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.