Ecological niche modelling was used to predict the potential geographical distribution of
Rhodnius nasutus
Stål and
Rhodnius neglectus
Lent, in Brazil and to investigate the niche divergence between these morphologically
similar triatomine species. The distribution of
R. neglectus covered mainly the cerrado of Central Brazil, but
the prediction maps also revealed its occurrence in transitional areas within the caatinga, Pantanal and Amazon
biomes. The potential distribution of
R. nasutus covered the Northeastern Region of Brazil in the semi-arid caatinga
and the Maranhão babaçu forests. Clear ecological niche differences between these species were observed.
R. nasutus occurred more in warmer and drier areas than
R. neglectus. In the principal component analysis PC1
was correlated with altitude and temperature (mainly temperature in the coldest and driest months) and PC2 with
vegetation index and precipitation. The prediction maps support potential areas of co-occurrence for these species
in the Maranhão babaçu forests and in caatinga/cerrado transitional areas, mainly in state of Piaui. Entomologists
engaged in Chagas disease vector surveillance should be aware that
R. neglectus and
R. nasutus can occur in the
same localities of Northeastern Brazil. Thus, the identification of bugs in these areas should be improved by applying
morphometrical and/or molecular methods.
