Field tests of carbon dioxide and conspecifics as baits for Mepraia spinolai, wild vector of Chagas disease

In spite of extensive evidence showing an association between host stimuli and insect finding behaviour, the importance of carbon dioxide in attracting Triatominae is not entirely understood. We assessed the potential of conspecific individuals and CO2 in attracting free-ranging individuals of Mepraia spinolai in a Chilean semiarid locality. While the presence of conspecific individuals had no effect on the triatomine behaviour, solid CO2-baited traps were more effective in attracting M. spinolai than control (empty) traps. We conclude that CO2 trapping is an effective field technique for M. spinolai detection and potential control. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.