Journal of Medical Entomology (2020) 57, 1077-1081

Cari D. Lewis, Brenna A. Levine, Edward L. Vargo, Coby Schal and Warren Booth (2020)
Recent detection of multiple populations of the tropical bed bug (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) exhibiting kdr-associated mutations in Hawaii
Journal of Medical Entomology 57 (4), 1077-1081
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.
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Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Coby Schal

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
surveys/sampling/distribution
new introduction of pest

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Cimex hemipterus		U.S.A. (Hawaii)