Population effects of fluctuation in fecundity and mortality in Triatoma infestans: simulation using Leslie matrices Effectos poblacionales de fluctuaciones de la fecundidad y la mortalidad de Triatoma infestans: simulacion mediante matrices de Leslie.

Abstract

The population effects of known fluctuations in fecundity and mortality of T. infestans was studied through simulation using Leslie matrices. The effect of mortality and fecundity cycles was a stepped cycling through the growing phase, with no significant population decreases. Density dependent regulation stabilizes changes during the steady phase. The main effect is on population composition with the establishment of a regular annual cycle in the proportion of different age groups. Cycles with high number of larvae may be misinterpreted as an adult plague.