Direct transmission of <i>Trypanosoma cruzi</i> between individuals of <i>Rhodnius prolixus</i> Stal

Abstract

Experiments were done to test the possibility and frequency of direct transmission of trypanosomes between different stages of Rhodnius prolixus. It was found that direct transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi between individuals of Rhodnius prolixus is not uncommon, and more frequent when the non-infected bugs are hungry. The mechanism of transmission is probably by taking a blood meal from other engorged individuals and by ingestion of feces from infected bugs. No direct transmission of Trypanosoma rangeli between bugs was observed.