Learning and memory in triatomine insects

Group Leader

sebastian Dr. Sebastián Antonio Minoli
Investigador Independiente(CONICET).

Many preferences in animals are strictly genetic. However, there are also sensory cues that can acquire gain relevance or even become biologically relevant after a first sensory experience. These cues can be presented individually (non- associative learning) or paired with a reinforcement (associative learning).

Our project focuses mainly in establishing the cognitive abilities of epidemiological and/or sanitary relevant insect species (e.g. kissing-bugs, mosquitoes, lice and cockroaches) and understanding which cues generate innate behaviours and which of them can be learned.

The main objective of our investigation is to determine how and what can these insects learn about their environment and to understand the mechanisms involved in learning and memory.