Recent Detection of Multiple Populations of the Tropical Bed Bug (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) Exhibiting kdr-Associated Mutations in Hawaii

Cari D. Lewis, Brenna A. Levine, Edward L. Vargo, Coby Schal, Warren Booth

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

In recent years, bed bugs have experienced a remarkable resurgence on a near global scale. While reports have primarily focused on the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius (L.), which has resurged largely in temperate regions, in tropical regions the tropical bed bug, Cimex hemipterus (F.) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae), has reemerged as well. Recent reports of C. hemipterus introductions to subtropical and temperate regions, outside of the species natural distribution, suggest the potential for establishment and further spread. Establishment may be aided by insecticide resistance mechanisms, such as the presence of knockdown resistance (kdr)-Associated mutations, which potentially confer resistance to pyrethroid, pyrethrin, and organochloride insecticides. Here, we present the first report of the detection and likely establishment of C. hemipterus in Honolulu, Hawaii, from samples collected in 2009 and 2019. Furthermore, through partial sequencing of the voltage-gated sodium channel, we report the presence of kdr-Associated mutations in all samples. These findings have implications for the implementation of control strategies aimed at eradicating infestations.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1077-1081
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Medical Entomology
Volume57
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jul 2020

Keywords

  • Cimex hemipterus
  • insecticide resistance
  • introduced species
  • knockdown resistance
  • voltage-gated sodium channel

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