Taxonomic reassessment of Rhodnius zeledoni Jurberg, Rocha & Galvão: a morphological and morphometric analysis comparing its taxonomic relationship with Rhodnius domesticus Neiva & Pinto

Abstract

Background Rhodnius zeledoni was described from a single specimen. Since its description, doubts have arisen regarding the taxonomic status of this species in relation to Rhodnius domesticus. Methods The present study reviewed and compared R. zeledoni with R. domesticus based on morphological analysis and head geometric morphometrics. Results Our analysis revealed the absence of distinctive diagnostic characters between the two species at specific levels. Rhodnius zeledoni and R. domesticus show morphological and morphometric similarity, with only minor differences in coloration observed between them. Contrary to previous statements, our analysis showed that R. zeledoni and R. paraensis are not closely related species, not corroborating previous studies with such an assumption. Conclusions Therefore, we formally propose R. zeledoni as a junior synonym of R. domesticus.