Attempt to Artificially Infect <i>Cimex lectularius</i> (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) with <i>Bartonella henselae</i> (Alphaproteobacteria: Bartonellaceae)

Abstract Bed bugs (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) are common, hematophagous ectoparasites of humans and other animals experiencing an international resurgence. Cimicids have been suspected in the transmission many disease agents, including Bartonella species; however, any kind has not yet confirmed natural cycles. spp. transmitted by a variety arthropods, fleas, lice, sand flies, but potential role bed remains unknown. In this study, we used artificial membrane to feed rabbit blood, either infected or uninfected with henselae Regnery et al. (Alphaproteobacteria: Bartonellaceae) two groups adult Cimex lectularius L. After 2 wks, presence B. gut salivary glands was assessed via PCR electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. Although 4 10 bug guts showed evidence henselae, were unable visually detect gland TEM images.