Ixodes  spp., Boophilus spp., Amblyomma spp. (HARD TICKS)

 

Adult:

 

http://www.ticktexas.org/ticks/images/af_blackleggedtick.jpg

Comparison of tick species:

 

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/lyme/images/TickMaster4_12_w452.gif

 

Images:

Ixodes scapularis (black-legged tick) adults: 
http://www.k-state.edu/parasitology/625tutorials/Arthropods22.html  

 

Phylogeny:                              Class Arachnida

 

Metamorphosis:                      'Incomplete".  Larvae and nymphs resemble adults. 

Geographical location:            Cosmopolitan

 

Organs affected:                      Skin

 

Symptoms and clinical signs:  Inflammatory responses, including local hyperemia, edema, hemorrhage.

 

Diseases transmitted:              American spotted fever (rickettsia), Viral encephalitis, Tularemia (bacteria), Babesia (protozoa).                     

 

Treatment/control:                            Topical insecticide and use of repellents.