Triatoma gerstaeckeri
This record describes Triatoma gerstaeckeri (species). Recorded family: Reduviidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
See CDC triatomine bug page
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Heteroptera
- Superfamily
- Miroidea
- Family
- Reduviidae (Assassin Bugs)
- Subfamily
- Triatominae
- Genus
- Triatoma (Bloodsucking Conenoses)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se NM, w. TX, ne Mexico map
Seasonal Activity
May-Aug (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Unlike many arthropod-borne infections, T. cruzi is not transmitted through the bite of the infected insect. Triatomines defecate while feeding, and the agent can enter the bloodstream when the host scratches the bite wound. However, T. gerstaeckeri will not walk completely onto a host, and generally does not defecate while feeding, reducing host exposure.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Triatoma gerstaeckeri. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hemiptera (true bugs) includes over 80,000 described species across cicadas, aphids, leafhoppers, shield bugs, and bed bugs. Aphids alone cost global agriculture an estimated $2.5 billion annually in crop losses.
Ecological role of the group
Many Hemiptera are essential food sources for birds and predatory insects. Cicadas provide massive nutrient pulses during emergence events - a single Brood X emergence can involve trillions of individuals across 15 states.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) caused $37 million in apple crop losses in a single year in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region. Bed bug infestations in the U.S. increased by 500% between 2001-2010, costing the hotel industry hundreds of millions annually.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, EPA, University research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Triatoma gerstaeckeri (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Cotinis; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , KenW
Frequently Asked Questions About Triatoma gerstaeckeri
How big is Triatoma gerstaeckeri?
23-28 mm
How do you identify Triatoma gerstaeckeri?
See CDC triatomine bug page
Where is Triatoma gerstaeckeri found?
Range: se NM, w. TX, ne Mexico map
When is Triatoma gerstaeckeri active?
Triatoma gerstaeckeri: seasonal activity - May-Aug (BG data).
What is the life cycle of a Triatoma gerstaeckeri?
Unlike many arthropod-borne infections, T. cruzi is not transmitted through the bite of the infected insect. Triatomines defecate while feeding, and the agent can enter the bloodstream when the host scratches the bite wound. However, T. gerstaeckeri will not walk completely onto a host, and generally does not defecate while feeding, reducing host exposure.