Kissing bugs also find suitable climatic conditions in Europe
Thursday, June 11, 2020 - 08:10
in Paleontology & Archaeology
An infection with Chagas disease is only possible in Latin America since the insect species that spread the disease only occurs there. Scientists at Goethe University and the Senckenberg Society for Natural Research have now used ecological niche models to calculate the extent to which habitats outside of the Americas may also be suitable for these insects. The result: Climatically suitable conditions can be found in southern Europe for two kissing bug species; along the coasts of Africa and Southeast Asia, the conditions are suitable for yet another species. The Frankfurt scientists therefore call for careful monitoring of the current distribution of triatomine bugs.