Biogeographical factors determining Triatoma recurva distribution in Chihuahua, México, 2014

Abstract

Introduction: Triatoma recurva is a Trypanosoma cruzi vector whose distribution and biological development are determined by factors that may influence the transmission of trypanosomiasis to humans. Objective: To identify the potential spatial distribution of Triatoma recurve, as well as social factors determining its presence. Materials and methods: We used the MaxEnt software to construct ecological niche models while bioclimatic variables (WorldClim) were derived from the monthly values of temperature and precipitation to generate biologically significant variables. The resulting cartography was interpreted as suitable areas for T. recurva presence. Results: Our results showed that the precipitation during the driest month (Bio 14), the maximum temperature during the warmest month (Bio 5), and the altitude (Alt) and mean temperature during the driest quarter (Bio 9) determined T. recurva distribution area at a higher percentage evidencing its strong relationship with domestic and surrounding structures. Conclusions. This methodology can be used in other geographical contexts to locate potential sampling sites where these triatomines occur.

Keywords

• triatoma
• triatominae
• ecosystem
• chagas’ disease
• disease vectors
• climate