Electroantennogram responses of the Triatoma dimidiata complex to volatiles produced by its exocrine glands

[Display omitted] •EAG responses were higher in females than in males.•Discriminant analysis of EAG sensitivity clearly differentiate between sexes of the three haplogroups.•Olfactory sensitivity is correlated with the number of chemo-sensilla present in the whole antenna.•The analysis of antennal phenotype and olfactory sensitivity support the idea that T. dimidiata is a species complex. Members of the Triatoma dimidiata complex are vectors of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiologic agent of Chagas disease. Morphological and genetic studies indicate that T. dimidiata complex has three principal haplogroups in Mexico. However, whether there are differences in the olfactory physiology among the haplogroups of this complex and a possible correlation with their antennal phenotype are not yet known. Antennal responses to 13 compounds released from the metasternal and Brindley´s glands, which are involved in the alarm and mating-related behaviours of T. dimidiata were investigated using electroantennography (EAG). Overall, of the 13 compounds tested, seven triggered EAG responses in both sexes of three Mexican haplogroups. The sensitivity of the EAG responses show some relationship with the total number of chemo-sensilla present on the antennae. Antennal sensitivity was different between sexes and haplogroups of the T. dimidiata complex. Discriminant analysis of EAG sensitivity was significant, separating the three haplogroups. Our finding is consistent with morphological and genetic evidence for haplogroups distinction within the complex.