Analysis of the geographical distribution of Psammolestes Bergroth (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae) in South America, with new records of Psammolestes tertius Lent & Jurberg

Abstract

The genus Psammolestes is comprised of three recognized Rhodniini species: P. arthuri, P. coreodes, and P. tertius. The geographical distribution of these triatomines in South America was analyzed using ecological niche modeling. Additionally, temperature, precipitation, and altitude limits for these species were estimated. The genetic algorithm for rule-set production (GARP) was applied to predict their geographical distribution. The models used were able to predict, with high probabilities, the occurrence of P. tertius in open woodlands of South America (mainly Cerrado and Caatinga ecoregions), making it the Psammolestes species with the widest distribution. P. arthuri presented a discontinuous potential distribution covering the Venezuelan Llanos and southeastern/southwestern fringes of Amazonia. P. coreodes presented the southernmost area of distribution, occurring mainly in the Argentinean Chaco. The models also support potential areas of co-occurrence for P. tertius and P. coreodes in southwestern Brazil. Clear ecological niche differences were observed for the three species: while P. arthuri occurred in warm and humid areas, P. coreodes occupied the driest and coldest areas. P. tertius presented intermediate climatological limits and occurred in the highest altitudes. Although climatic factors may determine the triatomine distribution, biotic factors, such as the association with thornbirds (Phacellodomus), may also influence the geographical distribution of Psammolestes species. Finally, this study confirms the usefulness of ecological niche modeling as a tool for studies on biogeographical aspects of triatomines.