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Hong Y, Yuan Z, Liu X. Global drivers of the conservation-invasion paradox. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2024:e14290. [PMID: 38708868 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
The conservation-invasion paradox (CIP) refers to a long-term phenomenon wherein species threatened in their native range can sustain viable populations when introduced to other regions. Understanding the drivers of CIP is helpful for conserving threatened species and managing invasive species, which is unfortunately still lacking. We compiled a global data set of 1071 introduction events, including 960 CIP events (successful establishment of threatened species outside its native range) and 111 non-CIP events (unsuccessful establishment of threatened species outside its native range after introduction), involving 174 terrestrial vertebrates. We then tested the relative importance of various predictors at the location, event, and species levels with generalized linear mixed models and model averaging. Successful CIP events occurred across taxonomic groups and biogeographic realms, especially for the mammal group in the Palearctic and Australia. Locations of successful CIP events had fewer native threat factors, especially less climate warming in invaded regions. The probability of a successful CIP event was highest when species introduction efforts were great and there were more local congeners and fewer natural enemies. These results can inform threatened species ex situ conservation and non-native invasive species mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhua Hong
- Key Laboratory for Conserving Wildlife with Small Populations in Yunnan, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhiyong Yuan
- Key Laboratory for Conserving Wildlife with Small Populations in Yunnan, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, China
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Self S, Yang Y, Walden H, Yabsley MJ, McMahan C, Herrin BH. A nowcast model to predict outdoor flea activity in real time for the contiguous United States. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:27. [PMID: 38254213 PMCID: PMC10804753 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06112-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), a parasite commonly found on both dogs and cats, is a competent vector for several zoonotic pathogens, including Dipylidium caninum (tapeworms), Bartonella henselae (responsible for cat scratch disease) and Rickettsia felis (responsible for flea-borne spotted fever). Veterinarians recommend that both cats and dogs be routinely treated with medications to prevent flea infestation. Nevertheless, surveys suggest that nearly one third of pet owners do not routinely administer appropriate preventatives. METHODS A mathematical model based on weighted averaging over time is developed to predict outdoor flea activity from weather conditions for the contiguous United States. This 'nowcast' model can be updated in real time as weather conditions change and serves as an important tool for educating pet owners about the risks of flea-borne disease. We validate our model using Google Trends data for searches for the term 'fleas.' This Google Trends data serve as a proxy for true flea activity, as validating the model by collecting fleas over the entire USA is prohibitively costly and time-consuming. RESULTS The average correlation (r) between the nowcast outdoor flea activity predictions and the Google Trends data was moderate: 0.65, 0.70, 0.66, 0.71 and 0.63 for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively. However, there was substantial regional variation in performance, with the average correlation in the East South Atlantic states being 0.81 while the average correlation in the Mountain states was only 0.45. The nowcast predictions displayed strong seasonal and geographic patterns, with predicted activity generally being highest in the summer months. CONCLUSIONS The nowcast model is a valuable tool by which to educate pet owners regarding the risk of fleas and flea-borne disease and the need to routinely administer flea preventatives. While it is ideal for domestic cats and dogs to on flea preventatives year-round, many pets remain vulnerable to flea infestation. Alerting pet owners to the local increased risk of flea activity during certain times of the year may motivate them to administer appropriate routine preventives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Self
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Yuan Yang
- School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, USA
| | - Heather Walden
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, USA
- Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, USA
| | - Christopher McMahan
- School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, USA
| | - Brian H Herrin
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, USA.
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Kirby AM, Evans EP, Bishop SJ, Lloyd VK. Establishment and range expansion of Dermacentor variabilis in the northern Maritimes of Canada: Community participatory science documents establishment of an invasive tick species. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292703. [PMID: 37831710 PMCID: PMC10575507 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick populations are dependent on a complex interplay of abiotic and biotic influences, many of which are influenced by anthropic factors including climate change. Dermacentor variabilis, the wood tick or American dog tick, is a hardy tick species that feeds from a wide range of mammals and birds that can transmit pathogens of medical and agricultural importance. Significant range expansion across North America has been occurring over the past decades;this study documents northwards range expansion in the Canadian Maritime provinces. Tick recoveries from passive surveillance between 2012 and 2021 were examined to assess northward population expansion through Atlantic Canada. At the beginning of this period, D. variabilis was abundant in the most southerly province, Nova Scotia, but was not considered established in the province to the north, New Brunswick. During the 10-year span covered by this study, an increasing number of locally acquired ticks were recovered in discrete foci, suggesting small established or establishing populations in southern and coastal New Brunswick. The pattern of population establishment follows the climate-driven establishment pattern of Ixodes scapularis to some extent but there is also evidence of successful seeding of disjunct populations in areas identified as sub-optimal for tick populations. Dogs were the most common host from which these ticks were recovered, which raises the possibility of human activity, via movement of companion animals, having a significant role in establishing new populations of this species. Dermacentor variabilis is a vector of several pathogens of medical and agricultural importance but is not considered to be a competent vector for Borrelia burgdorferi, the etiological agent of Lyme disease; our molecular analysis of a subset of D. variabilis for both B. burgdorferi and B. miyamotoi did not confirm any with Borrelia. This study spans the initial establishment of this tick species and documents the pattern of introduction, providing a relatively unique opportunity to examine the first stages of range expansion of a tick species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M. Kirby
- Dept. Biology, Mount Allison University, Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Ellis P. Evans
- Dept. Biology, Mount Allison University, Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Samantha J. Bishop
- Dept. Biology, Mount Allison University, Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Vett K. Lloyd
- Dept. Biology, Mount Allison University, Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada
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Han L, Zhang Z, Tu W, Zhang Q, Hong Y, Chen S, Lin Z, Gu S, Du Y, Wu Z, Liu X. Preferred prey reduce species realized niche shift and improve range expansion prediction. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 859:160370. [PMID: 36414055 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Many studies have detected realized climatic niche shifts during range changes; this is challenging the fundamental theory of the niche conservatism hypothesis (NCH) and the usefulness of the ecological niche model (ENM) for predicting the distributions of species in space and time by tracking environmental change. Biotic factors such as predatory interactions are important components of species realized niches but are generally difficult to quantify during NCH testing and ENM building. Identifying species' preferred prey may provide a unique opportunity to include trophic interactions in assessing the NCH and determine whether more precise ENM predictions are generated. In this study, we focused on a range-expanding predatory bird, the Asian openbill (Anastomus oscitans). The main prey of the Asian openbill include 136 snail species. We observed a realized climatic niche shift during the northward expansion of the Asian openbill by considering only climates; however, niche conservatism was detected after incorporating their preferred prey. ENMs including preferred snails also predicted the distributions of the Asian openbill better than climate-only models and models including nonpreferred snails or only habitat variables. The results of our study suggested the importance of incorporating preferred prey in evaluating the NCH and developing a framework for predicting the range shifts of both native and alien species in response to global climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Han
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection, Guangxi Normal University, Ministry of Education, Guilin 541006, Guangxi, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang, 100101 Beijing, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Rare and Endangered Animal Ecology, Guilin 541006, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhixin Zhang
- Arctic Research Center, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 001-0021, Japan; CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, Guangdong, China
| | - Weishan Tu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang, 100101 Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang, 100101 Beijing, China; School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang, 100101 Beijing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yanhua Hong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang, 100101 Beijing, China; Key Laboratory for Conserving Wildlife with Small Populations in Yunnan, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650224, Yunnan, China
| | - Shengnan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang, 100101 Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Lin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang, 100101 Beijing, China; College of Life Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, Xinjiang, China
| | - Shimin Gu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang, 100101 Beijing, China
| | - Yuanbao Du
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang, 100101 Beijing, China
| | - Zhengjun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection, Guangxi Normal University, Ministry of Education, Guilin 541006, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Rare and Endangered Animal Ecology, Guilin 541006, Guangxi, China.
| | - Xuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen West Road, Chaoyang, 100101 Beijing, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, China.
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5
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Nielebeck C, Kim SH, Pepe A, Himes L, Miller Z, Zummo S, Tang M, Monzón JD. Climatic stress decreases tick survival but increases rate of host‐seeking behavior. Ecosphere 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Caleb Nielebeck
- Natural Science Division Pepperdine University Malibu California USA
| | - Sang Hyo Kim
- Natural Science Division Pepperdine University Malibu California USA
| | - Antonio Pepe
- Natural Science Division Pepperdine University Malibu California USA
| | - Lucian Himes
- Natural Science Division Pepperdine University Malibu California USA
| | - Zachary Miller
- Natural Science Division Pepperdine University Malibu California USA
| | - Sophia Zummo
- Natural Science Division Pepperdine University Malibu California USA
| | - Mary Tang
- Natural Science Division Pepperdine University Malibu California USA
| | - Javier D. Monzón
- Natural Science Division Pepperdine University Malibu California USA
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6
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Pascoe EL, Nava S, Labruna MB, Paddock CD, Levin ML, Marcantonio M, Foley JE. Predicting the northward expansion of tropical lineage Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato ticks in the United States and its implications for medical and veterinary health. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271683. [PMID: 36001545 PMCID: PMC9401143 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The tropical lineage within the Rhipicephalus sanguineus species complex is cause for growing concern in the U.S. based on its prominent role in creating and perpetuating multiple recently identified outbreaks of Rocky Mountain spotted fever in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This lineage is undergoing a northward range expansion in the United States, necessitating the need for enhanced surveillance for Rh. sanguineus. To inform more focused surveillance efforts we use species distribution models (SDMs) to predict current (2015–2019) and future (2021–2040) habitat for the tropical lineage. Models using the MaxEnt algorithm were informed using geolocations of ticks genetically confirmed to be of the tropical lineage, for which data on 23 climatic and ecological variables were extracted. Models predicted that suitability was optimal where temperatures are relatively warm and stable, and there is minimal precipitation. This translated into habitat being predicted along much of the coast of southern states including California, Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. Although the endophilic nature of tropical Rh. sanguineus somewhat violates the assumptions of SDMs, our models correctly predicted known locations of this tick and provide a starting point for increased surveillance efforts. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of using molecular methods to distinguish between ticks in the Rh. sanguineus species complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L. Pascoe
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Santiago Nava
- Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, Estación Experimental Agropecuaria Rafaela, Rafaela, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científcas y Técnicas (Conicet), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marcelo B. Labruna
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Christopher D. Paddock
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Michael L. Levin
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Matteo Marcantonio
- Evolutionary Ecology and Genetics Group, Earth & Life Institute, UCLouvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Janet E. Foley
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
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Sultan S, Zeb J, Ayaz S, Rehman SU, Khan S, Hussain M, Senbill H, Husain S, Sparagano OA. Epidemiologic profile of hard ticks and molecular characterization of Rhipicephalus microplus infesting cattle in central part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:2481-2493. [PMID: 35838795 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07596-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Tick infestation is a major public and animal health concern causing significant financial losses, especially in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. This study aimed at investigating the epidemiologic profile of ticks infesting cattle and molecular identification of R. microplus in the centrally ignored part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 600 cattle from 20 farms were examined for the tick infestation, among them 358 (59.7%) cattle were infested with ticks. A total of 2118 nymph, larvae and adult tick stages were collected and morphologically identified followed by molecular confirmation of Rhipicephalus microplus. Host-based demographic and ecological parameter analysis revealed significantly higher tick infestation in adult, female, exotic, freely grazing, and with irregular/no acaricides treated cattle. The univariate logistic analysis showed that host age, gender, breed, acaricides use, and feeding method were significantly (P < 0.05) associated, whereas multivariate analysis revealed only host breed and feeding method were potential risk factors (P < 0.05) for tick infestation. Microscopy-based examination identified four different species of ticks including R. microplus (44.5%), Hyalomma anatolicum (38.5%), and Hyalomma marginatum (10.5%) and Hyalomma excavatum (6.5%). Tick infestation pattern showed that 55.9% of cattle was found co-infested with R. microplus and H. anatolicum followed by R. microplus and H. anatolicum and H. marginatum (29.3%) then R. microplus, H. anatolicum, H. marginatum, and H. excavatum (11.2%). Sequencing of the second internal transcribed spacer (ITS2-) and 16S rRNA gene fragments also confirmed the molecular identification of Rhipicephalus microplus. Phylogenetic analysis of ITS-2 revealed all sequences clustered in single clade of the R. microplus while the 16S rRNA nucleotide sequences showed that R. microplus in this study was clustered together in clade A along with other isolates from Pakistan, China, and India. The high tick infestation suggests the need for designing strategic and integrated control measures for ticks in order to ensure good health of domestic animals in this region of Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samia Sultan
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Jehan Zeb
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sultan Ayaz
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Sadeeq Ur Rehman
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Sanaullah Khan
- Department of Zoology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Mubashir Hussain
- Department of Microbiology, Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat, Pakistan
| | - Haytham Senbill
- Department of Applied Entomology & Zoology, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21545, Egypt
| | - Sabir Husain
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Olivier Andre Sparagano
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Duncan KT, Elshahed MS, Sundstrom KD, Little SE, Youssef NH. Influence of tick sex and geographic region on the microbiome of Dermacentor variabilis collected from dogs and cats across the United States. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:102002. [PMID: 35810549 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.102002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
As tick-borne diseases continue to increase across North America, current research strives to understand how the tick microbiome may affect pathogen acquisition, maintenance, and transmission. Prior high throughput amplicon-based microbial diversity surveys of the widespread tick Dermacentor variabilis have suggested that life stage, sex, and geographic region may influence the composition of the tick microbiome. Here, adult D. variabilis ticks (n = 145) were collected from dogs and cats from 32 states with specimens originating from all four regions of the United States (West, Midwest, South, and Northeast), and the tick microbiome was examined via V4-16S rRNA gene amplification and Illumina sequencing. A total of 481,246 bacterial sequences were obtained (median 2924 per sample, range 399-11,990). Fifty genera represented the majority (>80%) of the sequences detected, with the genera Allofrancisella and Francisella being the most abundant. Further, 97%, 23%, and 5.5% of the ticks contained sequences belonging to Francisella spp., Rickettsia spp., and Coxiella spp., respectively. No Ehrlichia spp. or Anaplasma spp. were identified. Co-occurrence analysis, by way of correlation coefficients, between the top 50 most abundant genera demonstrated five strong positive and no strong negative correlation relationships. Geographic region had a consistent effect on species richness with ticks from the Northeast having a significantly greater level of richness. Alpha diversity patterns were dependent on tick sex, with males exhibiting higher levels of diversity, and geographical region, with higher level of diversity observed in ticks obtained from the Northeast, but not on tick host. Community structure, or beta diversity, of tick microbiome was impacted by tick sex and geographic location, with microbiomes of ticks from the western US exhibiting a distinct community structure when compared to those from the other three regions (Northeast, South, and Midwest). In total, LEfSe (Linear discriminant analysis Effect Size) identified 18 specific genera driving these observed patterns of diversity and community structure. Collectively, these findings highlight the differences in bacterial diversity of D. variabilis across the US and supports the interpretation that tick sex and geographic region affects microbiome composition across a broad sampling distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn T Duncan
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Room 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
| | - Mostafa S Elshahed
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Kellee D Sundstrom
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Room 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Susan E Little
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Room 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Noha H Youssef
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
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9
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American dog ticks along their expanding range edge in Ontario, Canada. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11063. [PMID: 35773456 PMCID: PMC9247098 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15009-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The American dog tick, Dermacentorvariabilis, is a tick of public and veterinary health importance in North America. Using passive tick surveillance data, we document distribution changes for the American dog tick in Ontario, Canada, from 2010 through 2018. Dermacentorvariabilis submissions from the public were geocoded and aggregated—from large to small administrative geographies—by health region, public health unit (PHU) and Forward Sortation Area (FSA). PHU hot spots with high rates of D. variabilis submissions were (1) Brant County, Haldimand-Norfolk and Niagara Regional in the Central West region and (2) Lambton and Winsor-Essex County in the South West region. The number of established D. variabilis populations with ≥ 6 submissions per year increased significantly during the study at regional (PHUs: 22 to 31) and local (FSAs: 27 to 91) scales. The range of D. variabilis increased similarly to the positive control (Ixodesscapularis) during the study and in contrast to the static range of the negative control (Ixodescookei). Submission hot spots were in warmer, low elevation areas with poorly drained soils, compared to the province’s low submission areas. Dermacentorvariabilis is spreading in Ontario and continued research into their vector ecology is required to assess medicoveterinary health risks.
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Kopsco HL, Smith RL, Halsey SJ. A Scoping Review of Species Distribution Modeling Methods for Tick Vectors. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.893016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundGlobally, tick-borne disease is a pervasive and worsening problem that impacts human and domestic animal health, livelihoods, and numerous economies. Species distribution models are useful tools to help address these issues, but many different modeling approaches and environmental data sources exist.ObjectiveWe conducted a scoping review that examined all available research employing species distribution models to predict occurrence and map tick species to understand the diversity of model strategies, environmental predictors, tick data sources, frequency of climate projects of tick ranges, and types of model validation methods.DesignFollowing the PRISMA-ScR checklist, we searched scientific databases for eligible articles, their references, and explored related publications through a graphical tool (www.connectedpapers.com). Two independent reviewers performed article selection and characterization using a priori criteria.ResultsWe describe data collected from 107 peer-reviewed articles that met our inclusion criteria. The literature reflects that tick species distributions have been modeled predominantly in North America and Europe and have mostly modeled the habitat suitability for Ixodes ricinus (n = 23; 21.5%). A wide range of bioclimatic databases and other environmental correlates were utilized among models, but the WorldClim database and its bioclimatic variables 1–19 appeared in 60 (56%) papers. The most frequently chosen modeling approach was MaxEnt, which also appeared in 60 (56%) of papers. Despite the importance of ensemble modeling to reduce bias, only 23 papers (21.5%) employed more than one algorithm, and just six (5.6%) used an ensemble approach that incorporated at least five different modeling methods for comparison. Area under the curve/receiver operating characteristic was the most frequently reported model validation method, utilized in nearly all (98.9%) included studies. Only 21% of papers used future climate scenarios to predict tick range expansion or contraction. Regardless of the representative concentration pathway, six of seven genera were expected to both expand and retract depending on location, while Ornithodoros was predicted to only expand beyond its current range.ConclusionSpecies distribution modeling techniques are useful and widely employed tools for predicting tick habitat suitability and range movement. However, the vast array of methods, data sources, and validation strategies within the SDM literature support the need for standardized protocols for species distribution and ecological niche modeling for tick vectors.
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11
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Cull B. Monitoring Trends in Distribution and Seasonality of Medically Important Ticks in North America Using Online Crowdsourced Records from iNaturalist. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13050404. [PMID: 35621740 PMCID: PMC9145093 DOI: 10.3390/insects13050404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary An increasing number of cases of tick-borne diseases are being reported across North America and in new areas. This has been linked to the spread of ticks, primarily the blacklegged tick Ixodes scapularis and the lone star tick Amblyomma americanum, into new geographical regions. Tick surveillance systems have played an important role in monitoring the changing distributions of these ticks and have benefitted greatly from including data collected by members of the public through citizen or community science projects. Enlisting the help of community scientists is an economical way to collect large amounts of data over a wide geographical area, and participants can also benefit by receiving information relevant to their tick encounter, for example regarding tick-borne disease symptoms. This study examined tick observations from the online image-based biological recording platform iNaturalist to evaluate its use as an extra tool to collect information on expanding tick distributions. The distribution and seasonality of iNaturalist tick observations were found to accurately represent those of the studied species and identified potential new areas of tick expansion. Free-to-access iNaturalist data is a highly cost-effective method to support existing tick surveillance strategies to aid preparedness and response in emerging areas of tick establishment. Abstract Recent increases in the incidence and geographic range of tick-borne diseases in North America are linked to the range expansion of medically important tick species, including Ixodes scapularis, Amblyomma americanum, and Amblyomma maculatum. Passive tick surveillance programs have been highly successful in collecting information on tick distribution, seasonality, host-biting activity, and pathogen infection prevalence. These have demonstrated the power of citizen or community science participation to collect country-wide, epidemiologically relevant data in a resource-efficient manner. This study examined tick observations from the online image-based biological recording platform iNaturalist to evaluate its use as an effective tool for monitoring the distributions of A. americanum, A. maculatum, I. scapularis, and Dermacentor in the United States and Canada. The distribution and seasonality of iNaturalist tick observations were found to accurately represent those of the studied species. County-level iNaturalist tick occurrence data showed good agreement with other data sources in documented areas of I. scapularis and A. americanum establishment, and highlighted numerous previously unreported counties with iNaturalist observations of these species. This study supports the use of iNaturalist data as a highly cost-effective passive tick surveillance method that can complement existing surveillance strategies to update tick distributions and identify new areas of tick establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Cull
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
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12
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Bacon EA, Kopsco H, Gronemeyer P, Mateus-Pinilla N, Smith RL. Effects of Climate on the Variation in Abundance of Three Tick Species in Illinois. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 59:700-709. [PMID: 34875079 PMCID: PMC8924963 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The range of ticks in North America has been steadily increasing likely, in part, due to climate change. Along with it, there has been a rise in cases of tick-borne disease. Among those medically important tick species of particular concern are Ixodes scapularis Say (Acari: Ixodidae), Dermacentor variabilis Say (Acari: Ixodidae), and Amblyomma americanum Linneaus (Acari: Ixodidae). The aim of this study was to determine if climate factors explain existing differences in abundance of the three aforementioned tick species between two climatically different regions of Illinois (Central and Southern), and if climate variables impact each species differently. We used both zero-inflated regression approaches and Bayesian network analyses to assess relationships among environmental variables and tick abundance. Results suggested that the maximum average temperature and total precipitation are associated with differential impact on species abundance and that this difference varied by region. Results also reinforced a differential level of resistance to desiccation among these tick species. Our findings help to further define risk periods of tick exposure for the general public, and reinforce the importance of responding to each tick species differently.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Bacon
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana IL, USA
| | - H Kopsco
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana IL, USA
| | - P Gronemeyer
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana IL, USA
| | - N Mateus-Pinilla
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana IL, USA
| | - R L Smith
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana IL, USA
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13
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Lyons LA, Brand ME, Gronemeyer P, Mateus-Pinilla N, Ruiz MO, Stone CM, Tuten HC, Smith RL. Comparing Contributions of Passive and Active Tick Collection Methods to Determine Establishment of Ticks of Public Health Concern Within Illinois. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1849-1864. [PMID: 33855433 PMCID: PMC8285025 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
In Illinois, between 1990 and 2017, tick-borne diseases in humans increased 10-fold, yet we have insufficient information on when and where people are exposed to vector ticks (Ixodida: Ixodidae). The aims of our research were to compare contributions of passive and active tick collection methods in determining establishment of ticks of public health concern and obtain information on tick distributions within Illinois. We used three surveillance strategies within the Illinois Tick Inventory Collaboration Network to gather information about the ticks of public health concern: 1) passive collection (voluntary submission by the public); 2) systematic collection (biweekly active surveillance); and 3) special collections (active collections in locations of special interest). Of collected adult and nymphal ticks, 436 were from passive collections, 142 from systematic collections, and 1,270 from special collections. Tick species distribution status changed in 36 counties. Our data provide noteworthy updates to distribution maps for use by public health agencies to develop prevention and control strategies. Additionally, the program built a network of collaborations and partnerships to support future tick surveillance efforts within Illinois and highlighted how the combination of the three surveillance strategies can be used to determine geographic spread of ticks, pinpoint locations in need of more surveillance, and help with long-term efforts that support phenology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Ann Lyons
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
- Corresponding author, tel: +1 217-300-0532, e-mail:
| | - Mary E Brand
- Illinois Natural History Survey-Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, 1816 S. Oak Street, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service, 1211 Old 6 Road, Malcom, IA 50157, USA
| | - Peg Gronemeyer
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
- Illinois Natural History Survey-Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, 1816 S. Oak Street, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Nohra Mateus-Pinilla
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
- Illinois Natural History Survey-Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, 1816 S. Oak Street, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Marilyn O’Hara Ruiz
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Chris M Stone
- Illinois Natural History Survey-Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, 1816 S. Oak Street, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Holly C Tuten
- Illinois Natural History Survey-Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, 1816 S. Oak Street, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Rebecca L Smith
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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Eisen RJ, Paddock CD. Tick and Tickborne Pathogen Surveillance as a Public Health Tool in the United States. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1490-1502. [PMID: 32440679 PMCID: PMC8905548 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, tickborne disease (TBD) cases and established populations of medically important ticks have been reported over expanding geographic areas, and an increasing number of tickborne bacteria, viruses, and protozoans have been recognized as human pathogens, collectively contributing to an increasing burden of TBDs in the United States. The prevention and diagnosis of TBDs depend greatly on an accurate understanding by the public and healthcare providers of when and where persons are at risk for exposure to human-biting ticks and to the pathogens these ticks transmit. However, national maps showing the distributions of medically important ticks and the presence or prevalence of tickborne pathogens are often incomplete, outdated, or lacking entirely. Similar deficiencies exist regarding geographic variability in host-seeking tick abundance. Efforts to accurately depict acarological risk are hampered by lack of systematic and routine surveillance for medically important ticks and their associated human pathogens. In this review, we: 1) outline the public health importance of tick surveillance; 2) identify gaps in knowledge regarding the distributions and abundance of medically important ticks in the United States and the presence and prevalence of their associated pathogens; 3) describe key objectives for tick surveillance and review methods appropriate for addressing those goals; and 4) assess current capacity and barriers to implementation and sustainability of tick surveillance programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Eisen
- Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Christopher D. Paddock
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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Ali A, Zahid H, Zeb I, Tufail M, Khan S, Haroon M, Tufail M, Bilal M, Hussain M, Alouffi AS, Muñoz-Leal S, Labruna MB. Risk factors associated with tick infestations on equids in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, with notes on Rickettsia massiliae detection. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:363. [PMID: 34256806 PMCID: PMC8276440 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04836-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies on ticks infesting equids are lacking in various parts of the world, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. The aim of this study was to investigate the diversity of ticks infesting equids, associated risk factors and rickettsial detection in ticks from equids in KP. METHODS Inspection of 404 equid hosts from November 2018 to October 2019 resulted in the collection of 550 ticks. Data on tick-associated risk factors were collected from equid owners by means of a questionnaire. After morphological identification, partial DNA sequences of the tick mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene were used for taxonomic confirmation of species. Partial sequences of the gltA and ompA genes were used for Rickettsia detection in ticks. RESULTS A total of 550 tick specimens were collected on 324 (80.2%) of the equids inspected, of which 161 were horses (50%), 145 (45%) were donkeys and 18 were mules (5%). The ticks were identified as belonging to the following five species: Rhipicephalus microplus (341 specimens, 62% of the total ticks), Rh. haemaphysaloides (126, 23%), Rh. turanicus (39, 7%), Rh. sanguineus (s.l.) (33, 6%) and Hyalomma anatolicum (11, 2%). The most prevalent tick life stage was adult females (279, 51%) followed by adult males (186, 34%) and nymphs (85, 15%). Higher tick infestations were observed on male equids (relative risk [RR] 0.7432, P < 0.0005) and adult equids (RR 1.268, P < 0.0020). Ticks were frequently attached to the axial region of horses (55, 21%), sternum of donkeys (44, 21%) and belly of mules (19, 23%) (P < 0.04). Temporal patterns of tick infestation in association with temperature and humidity were highly significant (P < 0.05). Risk factors, such as animal housing (P < 0.0003), living management (P < 0.006), grazing type (P < 0.01) and location in hilly areas (P < 0.02), significantly enhanced the chances for tick infestation. Tick species analyzed in this study were phylogenetically related to species from Afghanistan, China, South Africa and Taiwan. Partial sequences of the gltA and ompA genes obtained from Rh. microplus and Rh. haemaphysaloides were 100% identical to the spotted fever group pathogen Rickettsia massiliae. CONCLUSIONS Equids exposed to significant risk factors were infected by one or more of at least five tick species in KP, Pakistan, and some of the ticks harbored the human pathogen R. massiliae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abid Ali
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
| | - Hafsa Zahid
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Ismail Zeb
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Tufail
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Sulaiman Khan
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Haroon
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Tufail
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Majid Hussain
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | | | - Sebastián Muñoz-Leal
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Av. Vicente Méndez 595, casilla 537, Chillán, Ñuble, Chile
| | - Marcelo B Labruna
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Duncan KT, Saleh MN, Sundstrom KD, Little SE. Dermacentor variabilis is the Predominant Dermacentor spp. (Acari: Ixodidae) Feeding on Dogs and Cats Throughout the United States. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1241-1247. [PMID: 33615364 PMCID: PMC8122232 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Throughout North America, Dermacentor spp. ticks are often found feeding on animals and humans, and are known to transmit pathogens, including the Rocky Mountain spotted fever agent. To better define the identity and distribution of Dermacentor spp. removed from dogs and cats in the United States, ticks submitted from 1,457 dogs (n = 2,924 ticks) and 137 cats (n = 209 ticks) from veterinary practices in 44/50 states from February 2018-January 2020 were identified morphologically (n = 3,133); the identity of ticks from regions where Dermacentor andersoni (Stiles) have been reported, and a subset of ticks from other regions, were confirmed molecularly through amplification and sequencing of the ITS2 region and a 16S rRNA gene fragment. Of the ticks submitted, 99.3% (3,112/3,133) were Dermacentor variabilis (Say), 0.4% (12/3,133) were D. andersoni, and 0.3% (9/3,133) were Dermacentor albipictus (Packard). While translocation of pets prior to tick removal cannot be discounted, the majority (106/122; 87%) of Dermacentor spp. ticks removed from dogs and cats in six Rocky Mountain states (Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado) were D. variabilis, suggesting this species may be more widespread in the western United States than is currently recognized, or that D. andersoni, if still common in the region, preferentially feeds on hosts other than dogs and cats. Together, these data support the interpretation that D. variabilis is the predominant Dermacentor species found on pets throughout the United States, a finding that may reflect recent shifts in tick distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn T Duncan
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
| | - Meriam N Saleh
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
| | - Kellee D Sundstrom
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
| | - Susan E Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
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Lippi CA, Gaff HD, White AL, St. John HK, Richards AL, Ryan SJ. Exploring the Niche of Rickettsia montanensis (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae) Infection of the American Dog Tick (Acari: Ixodidae), Using Multiple Species Distribution Model Approaches. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1083-1092. [PMID: 33274379 PMCID: PMC8122238 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis (Say) (Acari: Ixodidae), is a vector for several human disease-causing pathogens such as tularemia, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and the understudied spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR) infection caused by Rickettsia montanensis. It is important for public health planning and intervention to understand the distribution of this tick and pathogen encounter risk. Risk is often described in terms of vector distribution, but greatest risk may be concentrated where more vectors are positive for a given pathogen. When assessing species distributions, the choice of modeling framework and spatial layers used to make predictions are important. We first updated the modeled distribution of D. variabilis and R. montanensis using maximum entropy (MaxEnt), refining bioclimatic data inputs, and including soil variables. We then compared geospatial predictions from five species distribution modeling frameworks. In contrast to previous work, we additionally assessed whether the R. montanensis positive D. variabilis distribution is nested within a larger overall D. variabilis distribution, representing a fitness cost hypothesis. We found that 1) adding soil layers improved the accuracy of the MaxEnt model; 2) the predicted 'infected niche' was smaller than the overall predicted niche across all models; and 3) each model predicted different sizes of suitable niche, at different levels of probability. Importantly, the models were not directly comparable in output style, which could create confusion in interpretation when developing planning tools. The random forest (RF) model had the best measured validity and fit, suggesting it may be most appropriate to these data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Lippi
- Quantitative Disease Ecology and Conservation (QDEC) Lab Group, Department of Geography, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Holly D Gaff
- Department of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Alexis L White
- Quantitative Disease Ecology and Conservation (QDEC) Lab Group, Department of Geography, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Heidi K St. John
- Viral and Rickettsial Disease Program (VRDD) Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, MD
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, 6720A Rockledge Dr, Bethesda, MD
| | - Allen L Richards
- Viral and Rickettsial Disease Program (VRDD) Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, MD
| | - Sadie J Ryan
- Quantitative Disease Ecology and Conservation (QDEC) Lab Group, Department of Geography, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Corresponding author, e-mail:
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Hutcheson HJ, Mertins JW, Kondratieff BC, White MM. Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases of Colorado, Including New State Records for Argas radiatus (Ixodida: Argasidae) and Ixodes brunneus (Ixodida: Ixodidae). JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:505-517. [PMID: 33164093 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
We report 28 species of ticks (Acari: Ixodida) from Colorado (CO). We include the soft ticks (Argasidae) Argas (Argas) cooleyi Kohls and Hoogstraal, Argas (Persicargas) radiatus Railliet, Carios (Alectorobius) concanensis (Cooley and Kohls), Carios (Alectorobius) kelleyi (Cooley and Kohls), Ornithodoros (Pavlovskyella) hermsi Wheeler et al., Ornithodoros (Pavlovskyella) parkeri Cooley, Ornithodoros (Pavlovskyella) turicata (Dugès), Otobius (Otobius) lagophilus Cooley and Kohls, and Otobius (Otobius) megnini (Dugès). We include the metastriate hard ticks (Ixodidae) Dermacentor (Americentor) albipictus (Packard), Dermacentor (Dermacentor) andersoni Stiles, Dermacentor (Dermacentor) parumapertus Neumann, Dermacentor (Dermacentor) variabilis (Say), Haemaphysalis (Aboimisalis) chordeilis (Packard), Haemaphysalis (Gonixodes) leporispalustris (Packard), and Rhipicephalus (Rhipicephalus) sanguineus Latreille. Prostriate hard ticks include Ixodes (Ixodiopsis) angustus Neumann, Ixodes (Phoeloioxdes) baergi Cooley and Kohls, Ixodes (Trichotoixodes) brunneus Koch, Ixodes (Scaphixodes) howelli Cooley and Kohls, Ixodes (Phoeloioxdes) kingi Bishopp, Ixodes (Phoeloioxdes) marmotae Cooley and Kohls, Ixodes (Ixodiopsis) ochotonae Gregson, Ixodes (Phoeloioxdes) sculptus Neumann, Ixodes (Ixodiopsis) soricis Gregson, Ixodes (Ixodes) spinipalpis Hadwen and Nuttall, Ixodes (Phoeloioxdes) texanus Banks, and Ixodes (Ixodiopsis) woodi Bishopp. Argas radiatus and Ixodes brunneus represent new state records. Review of collection reports revealed that inclusion of Ixodes (Multidentatus) auritulus (Neumann), Ixodes (Phoeloioxdes) cookei Packard, Ixodes (Phoeloioxdes) marxi Banks, and Ixodes (Ixodes) pacificus Cooley and Kohls is dubious or unconfirmed and, conversely, that C. concanensis and H. chordeilis have distributions that include CO. We list an additional five species occasionally detected and 13 exotic species intercepted in CO. Tick-host associations, geographical distributions, and medical/veterinary importance are included.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Joel Hutcheson
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services, Diagnostics and Biologics, National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Ames, IA
| | - James W Mertins
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services, Diagnostics and Biologics, National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Ames, IA
| | - Boris C Kondratieff
- Department of Bioagricultural Sciences and Pest Management, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Monica M White
- Colorado Tick-Borne Disease Awareness Association, Poncha Springs, CO
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Alkishe A, Raghavan RK, Peterson AT. Likely Geographic Distributional Shifts among Medically Important Tick Species and Tick-Associated Diseases under Climate Change in North America: A Review. INSECTS 2021; 12:225. [PMID: 33807736 PMCID: PMC8001278 DOI: 10.3390/insects12030225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Ticks rank high among arthropod vectors in terms of numbers of infectious agents that they transmit to humans, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever, human monocytic ehrlichiosis, tularemia, and human granulocytic anaplasmosis. Increasing temperature is suspected to affect tick biting rates and pathogen developmental rates, thereby potentially increasing risk for disease incidence. Tick distributions respond to climate change, but how their geographic ranges will shift in future decades and how those shifts may translate into changes in disease incidence remain unclear. In this study, we have assembled correlative ecological niche models for eight tick species of medical or veterinary importance in North America (Ixodes scapularis, I. pacificus, I. cookei, Dermacentor variabilis, D. andersoni, Amblyomma americanum, A. maculatum, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus), assessing the distributional potential of each under both present and future climatic conditions. Our goal was to assess whether and how species' distributions will likely shift in coming decades in response to climate change. We interpret these patterns in terms of likely implications for tick-associated diseases in North America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelghafar Alkishe
- Biodiversity Institute, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Ram K. Raghavan
- Center for Vector-borne and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Departments of Veterinary Pathobiology and Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine and School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA;
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20
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Gao X, Wang L, Liu T, Xiao J, Wang H. Effect of agro-ecological landscape on the distribution of Culicoides obsoletus in northeast China. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2021; 77:693-696. [PMID: 32841531 DOI: 10.1002/ps.6062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Culicoides obsoletus is an important pest for animal husbandry. In the world, it is a major vector of bluetongue disease, which has been added to the list of Class A Animal Diseases by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) and must be reported in the event of an outbreak. Although numerous studies on Culicoides sampling in farms exist, the distribution of C. obsoletus in different landscapes remains unclear. RESULTS This study aimed to assess the effect of landscape type on the distribution of C. obsoletus. Samples were collected using light traps during spring and fall. The effect of landscape type on the distribution of C. obsoletus samples was measured by the maximum entropy model (MaxEnt). Results show that C. obsoletus mainly appears in forests and pastures. CONCLUSION Our results may provide references for controlling the C. obsoletus population and provide suggestions of other areas that may also face the challenge of bluetongue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Gao
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Long Wang
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jianhua Xiao
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hongbin Wang
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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21
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Porter WT, Barrand ZA, Wachara J, DaVall K, Mihaljevic JR, Pearson T, Salkeld DJ, Nieto NC. Predicting the current and future distribution of the western black-legged tick, Ixodes pacificus, across the Western US using citizen science collections. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0244754. [PMID: 33400719 PMCID: PMC7785219 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In the twenty-first century, ticks and tick-borne diseases have expanded their ranges and impact across the US. With this spread, it has become vital to monitor vector and disease distributions, as these shifts have public health implications. Typically, tick-borne disease surveillance (e.g., Lyme disease) is passive and relies on case reports, while disease risk is calculated using active surveillance, where researchers collect ticks from the environment. Case reports provide the basis for estimating the number of cases; however, they provide minimal information on vector population or pathogen dynamics. Active surveillance monitors ticks and sylvatic pathogens at local scales, but it is resource-intensive. As a result, data are often sparse and aggregated across time and space to increase statistical power to model or identify range changes. Engaging public participation in surveillance efforts allows spatially and temporally diverse samples to be collected with minimal effort. These citizen-driven tick collections have the potential to provide a powerful tool for tracking vector and pathogen changes. We used MaxEnt species distribution models to predict the current and future distribution of Ixodes pacificus across the Western US through the use of a nationwide citizen science tick collection program. Here, we present niche models produced through citizen science tick collections over two years. Despite obvious limitations with citizen science collections, the models are consistent with previously-predicted species ranges in California that utilized more than thirty years of traditional surveillance data. Additionally, citizen science allows for an expanded understanding of I. pacificus distribution in Oregon and Washington. With the potential for rapid environmental changes instigated by a burgeoning human population and rapid climate change, the development of tools, concepts, and methodologies that provide rapid, current, and accurate assessment of important ecological qualities will be invaluable for monitoring and predicting disease across time and space.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. Tanner Porter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
- Translational Genomics Research Institute, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Zachary A. Barrand
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Julie Wachara
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Kaila DaVall
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Joseph R. Mihaljevic
- School of Informatics, Computing, and Cyber Systems, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Talima Pearson
- Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Daniel J. Salkeld
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
| | - Nathan C. Nieto
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
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22
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Lakew BT, Kheravii SK, Wu SB, Eastwood S, Andrew NR, Jenkins C, Walkden-Brown SW. Endemic infection of cattle with multiple genotypes of Theileria orientalis on the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales despite limited presence of ticks. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 12:101645. [PMID: 33388554 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Bovine theileriosis, caused by the Theileria orientalis complex, causes a mild persistent infection with the severity dependent on the infecting genotype and host exposure status. Clinical theileriosis was first detected on the Northern Tablelands of NSW in 2009 and a high prevalence of infection in cattle reported in 2013. However, the parasite was not genotyped and likely vectors not investigated. In response to ongoing clinical cases, here we identify the Theileria genotypes present in the region and potential vectors. Genotype-specific multiplex qPCR of 90 blood samples from eight farms revealed a 100 % prevalence of T. orientalis in individual cattle with concurrent infection with all three genotypes present in 73 % of cases. The prevalence of the pathogenic genotype (Ikeda) differed significantly between farms; however, the level of parasitemia was not affected by genotype or associated with clinical disease. Parasitaemia levels were higher in heifers than cows. Questing tick collection on six of the farms between November 2017 and May 2019 yielded 358 questing ticks from one farm, all of which were morphologically identified as Haemaphysalis bancrofti. Larvae accounted for 59 % of the ticks followed by nymphs (34 %) and adults (7%). Theileria was detected only in nymphs with Ikeda and Buffeli genotypes each being detected in one of four pools of ticks. The high prevalence of co-infection with three genotypes of T. orientalis indicates that they are now endemic in the region and confirms the lack of cross-protection between genotypes. This is the first detection of T. orientalis in questing H. bancrofti ticks: indicating that it may be a vector for T. orientalis in this region. However, the high prevalence of bovine infection is at odds with the absence of captured ticks or history of tick infestation on five of the six farms raising the possibility that other vectors or transmission pathways play key roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biniam T Lakew
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia; College of Veterinary Medicine, Haramaya University, P. O. Box 138, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia.
| | - Sarbast K Kheravii
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Shu-Biao Wu
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Steve Eastwood
- Local Land Services, Northern Tablelands, Armidale, 2350, NSW, Australia
| | - Nigel R Andrew
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia; Insect Ecology Lab, Zoology, Centre for Behavioural and Physiological Ecology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Cheryl Jenkins
- Department of Primary Industries, Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, Menangle, NSW, 2568, Australia
| | - Stephen W Walkden-Brown
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
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Mechanisms Affecting the Acquisition, Persistence and Transmission of Francisella tularensis in Ticks. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8111639. [PMID: 33114018 PMCID: PMC7690693 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 600,000 vector-borne disease cases were reported in the United States (U.S.) in the past 13 years, of which more than three-quarters were tick-borne diseases. Although Lyme disease accounts for the majority of tick-borne disease cases in the U.S., tularemia cases have been increasing over the past decade, with >220 cases reported yearly. However, when comparing Borrelia burgdorferi (causative agent of Lyme disease) and Francisella tularensis (causative agent of tularemia), the low infectious dose (<10 bacteria), high morbidity and mortality rates, and potential transmission of tularemia by multiple tick vectors have raised national concerns about future tularemia outbreaks. Despite these concerns, little is known about how F. tularensis is acquired by, persists in, or is transmitted by ticks. Moreover, the role of one or more tick vectors in transmitting F. tularensis to humans remains a major question. Finally, virtually no studies have examined how F. tularensis adapts to life in the tick (vs. the mammalian host), how tick endosymbionts affect F. tularensis infections, or whether other factors (e.g., tick immunity) impact the ability of F. tularensis to infect ticks. This review will assess our current understanding of each of these issues and will offer a framework for future studies, which could help us better understand tularemia and other tick-borne diseases.
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24
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Song R, Ma Y, Hu Z, Li Y, Li M, Wu L, Li C, Dao E, Fan X, Hao Y, Bayin C. MaxEnt Modeling of Dermacentor marginatus (Acari: Ixodidae) Distribution in Xinjiang, China. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:1659-1667. [PMID: 32359141 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Dermacentor marginatus Sulkzer is a common tick species found in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR) of China, and is a vector for a variety of pathogens. To determine the potential distribution of this tick species in Xinjiang, a metadata containing 84 D. marginatus presence records combined with four localities from field collection were used for MaxEnt modeling to predict potential distribution of this tick species. Identification of tick samples showed 756 of 988 (76%) were D. marginatus. MaxEnt modeling results indicated that the potential distribution of this tick species was mainly confined to northern XUAR. Highly suitable areas included west side of Altay mountain, west rim of Junggar basin, and Yili River valley in the study area. The model showed an AUC value of 0.838 ± 0.063 (SD), based on 10-fold cross-validation. Although tick presence records used for modeling were limited, this is the first regional tick distribution model for D. marginatus in Xinjiang. The model will be helpful in assessing the risk of tick-borne diseases to human and animals in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqi Song
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
- College of Veterinary, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Ying Ma
- College of Veterinary, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Zhengxiang Hu
- Bayingol Vocational and Technical College, Korla, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yingke Li
- College of Mathematics and Physics, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Min Li
- College of Veterinary, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Lijiang Wu
- College of Veterinary, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Caishan Li
- College of Veterinary, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Erjiala Dao
- College of Science and Technology, Khovd State University, Khovd, Mongolia
| | - Xinli Fan
- College of Veterinary, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yunwei Hao
- College of Veterinary, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Chahan Bayin
- College of Veterinary, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
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25
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Boorgula GDY, Peterson AT, Foley DH, Ganta RR, Raghavan RK. Assessing the current and future potential geographic distribution of the American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis (Say) (Acari: Ixodidae) in North America. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237191. [PMID: 32776959 PMCID: PMC7416948 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis, is a veterinary- and medically- significant tick species that is known to transmit several diseases to animal and human hosts. The spatial distribution of this species in North America is not well understood, however; and knowledge of likely changes to its future geographic distribution owing to ongoing climate change is needed for proper public health planning and messaging. Two recent studies have evaluated these topics for D. variabilis; however, less-rigorous modeling approaches in those studies may have led to erroneous predictions. We evaluated the present and future distribution of this species using a correlative maximum entropy approach, using publicly available occurrence information. Future potential distributions were predicted under two representative concentration pathway (RCP) scenarios; RCP 4.5 for low-emissions and RCP 8.5 for high-emissions. Our results indicated a broader current distribution of this species in all directions relative to its currently known extent, and dramatic potential for westward and northward expansion of suitable areas under both climate change scenarios. Implications for disease ecology and public health are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunavanthi D. Y. Boorgula
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - A. Townsend Peterson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Desmond H. Foley
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit, Department of Entomology, National Museum of History, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Roman R. Ganta
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Ram K. Raghavan
- Center for Vector-borne and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Departments of Veterinary Pathobiology and Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine and School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, South Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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26
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Butler RA, Trout Fryxell RT, Houston AE, Bowers EK, Paulsen D, Coons LB, Kennedy ML. Small-mammal characteristics affect tick communities in southwestern Tennessee (USA). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2020; 12:150-154. [PMID: 32547921 PMCID: PMC7284121 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2020.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Life histories can influence the degree of parasite infestations on a host. Pressures exerted on hosts based on age and sex convey varying degrees of parasite prevalence due to differences in host lifestyles, but it is not known how interactions between different host traits affect tick numbers. The objective of this study was to determine if host characteristics (e.g., age, sex, weight, and their interactions) affect the mean number of ticks found on small mammals regardless of host species or habitat. Sherman live traps were placed in forest and grass/forb habitats representative of the southeastern United States. After capture, host characteristics were recorded, and hosts were then searched for ticks. A total of 281 small mammals (148 Peromyscus leucopus, 34 P. maniculatus, 76 Sigmodon hispidus, 16 Microtus pinetorum, and 7 Ochrotomys nuttalli) and 610 ticks (488 Dermacentor variabilis, 114 Ixodes scapularis, 1 Amblyomma americanum, and 7 A. maculatum) were collected in this study. Host's age, sex, and weight affected the number of ticks collected from small mammals and significant interaction effects between host traits occurred (weight by sex, weight by age, and sex by age). For instance, female subadult rodents had significantly more ticks compared to female adults, male subadults had significantly fewer ticks compared to male adults, and the number of ticks on a host increased as host body mass increased. These results support the hypothesis that the number of ticks vary on rodent hosts based on life histories and trait interactions. Therefore, understanding the behavioral mechanisms of a host can aid in the management of parasites in the environment. Host life histories predict the number of ticks present on a rodent. Male and subadult rodents are infested with an overall greater number of ticks than females and adults. Rodents have more ticks as their weight increases. Interactions between sex and age predict the number of ticks present on a rodent.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Butler
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA.,Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - R T Trout Fryxell
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - A E Houston
- Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - E K Bowers
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - D Paulsen
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - L B Coons
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - M L Kennedy
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
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27
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Gilliam B, Gronemeyer P, Chakraborty S, Winata F, Lyons LA, Miller-Hunt C, Tuten HC, Debosik S, Freeman D, O’hara-Ruiz M, Mateus-Pinilla N. Impact of Unexplored Data Sources on the Historical Distribution of Three Vector Tick Species in Illinois. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:872-883. [PMID: 31832656 PMCID: PMC7197698 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjz235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
We updated the Illinois historical (1905-December 2017) distribution and status (not reported, reported or established) maps for Amblyomma americanum (L.) (Acari: Ixodidae), Dermacentor variabilis (Say) (Acari: Ixodidae), and Ixodes scapularis (Say) (Acari: Ixodidae) by compiling publicly available, previously unexplored or newly identified published and unpublished data (untapped data). Primary data sources offered specific tick-level information, followed by secondary and tertiary data sources. For A. americanum, D. variabilis, and I. scapularis, primary data contributed to 90% (4,045/4,482), 80% (2,124/2,640), and 32% (3,490/10,898) tick records vs 10%, 20%, and 68%, respectively from secondary data; primary data updated status in 95% (62/65), 94% (51/54) and in 90% (9/10) of the updated counties for each of these tick species; by 1985 there were tick records in 6%, 68%, and 0% of the counties, compared to 20%, 72%, and 58% by 2004, and 77%, 96%, and 75% of the counties by 2017, respectively for A. americanum, D. variabilis, and I. scapularis. We document the loss of tick records due to unidentified, not cataloged tick collections, unidentified ticks in tick collections, unpublished data or manuscripts without specific county location, and tick-level information, to determine distribution and status. In light of the increase in tick-borne illnesses, updates in historical distributions and status maps help researchers and health officials to identify risk areas for a tick encounter and suggest targeted areas for public outreach and surveillance efforts for ticks and tick-borne diseases. There is a need for a systematic, national vector surveillance program to support research and public health responses to tick expansions and tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Gilliam
- Illinois Natural History Survey, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL
- USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, Malcom, IA
| | - Peg Gronemeyer
- Illinois Natural History Survey, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Sulagna Chakraborty
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Fikriyah Winata
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Lee Ann Lyons
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | | | - Holly C Tuten
- Illinois Natural History Survey, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL
| | | | | | - Marilyn O’hara-Ruiz
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Nohra Mateus-Pinilla
- Illinois Natural History Survey, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL
- Corresponding author, e-mail:
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28
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Raghavan RK, Heath ACG, Lawrence KE, Ganta RR, Peterson AT, Pomroy WE. Predicting the potential distribution of Amblyomma americanum (Acari: Ixodidae) infestation in New Zealand, using maximum entropy-based ecological niche modelling. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2020; 80:227-245. [PMID: 31965414 PMCID: PMC8153196 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-019-00460-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Although currently exotic to New Zealand, the potential geographic distribution of Amblyomma americanum (L.), the lone star tick, was modelled using maximum entropy (MaxEnt). The MaxEnt model was calibrated across the native range of A. americanum in North America using present-day climatic conditions and occurrence data from museum collections. The resulting model was then projected onto New Zealand using both present-day and future climates modelled under two greenhouse gas emission scenarios, representative concentration pathways (RCP) 4.5 (low) and RCP 8.5 (high). Three sets of WorldClim bioclimatic variables were chosen using the jackknife method and tested in MaxEnt using different combinations of model feature class functions and regularization multiplier values. The preferred model was selected based on partial receiver operating characteristic tests, the omission rate and the lowest Akaike information criterion. The final model had four bioclimatic variables, Annual Mean Temperature (BIO1), Annual Precipitation (BIO12), Precipitation Seasonality (BIO15) and Precipitation of Driest Quarter (BIO17), and the projected New Zealand distribution was broadly similar to that of Haemaphysalis longicornis Neumann, New Zealand's only livestock tick, but with a more extensive predicted suitability. The climate change predictions for the year 2050 under both low and high RCP scenarios projected only moderate increases in habitat suitability along the mountain valleys in the South Island. In conclusion, this analysis shows that given the opportunity and license A. americanum could and would successfully establish in New Zealand and could provide another vector for theileriosis organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Raghavan
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - A C G Heath
- Agresearch Ltd., C/O Hopkirk Research Institute, Private Bag 11008, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - K E Lawrence
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
| | - R R Ganta
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - A T Peterson
- Department of Ecology, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - W E Pomroy
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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29
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Lehane A, Parise C, Evans C, Beati L, Nicholson WL, Eisen RJ. Reported County-Level Distribution of the American Dog Tick (Acari: Ixodidae) in the Contiguous United States. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:131-155. [PMID: 31368492 PMCID: PMC8911316 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjz119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, tick-borne diseases are increasing in incidence and cases are reported over an expanding geographical area. Avoiding tick bites is a key strategy in tick-borne disease prevention, and this requires current and accurate information on where humans are at risk for exposure to ticks. Based on a review of published literature and records in the U.S. National Tick Collection and National Ecological Observatory Network databases, we compiled an updated county-level map showing the reported distribution of the American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis (Say). We show that this vector of the bacterial agents causing Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia is widely distributed, with records derived from 45 states across the contiguous United States. However, within these states, county-level records of established tick populations are limited. Relative to the range of suitable habitat for this tick, our data imply that D. variabilis is currently underreported in the peer-reviewed literature, highlighting a need for improved surveillance and documentation of existing tick records.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aine Lehane
- Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3156 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO 80521
| | - Christina Parise
- Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3156 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO 80521
| | - Colleen Evans
- U.S. National Tick Collection, Institute for Coastal Plain Science, Georgia Southern University, 202 Georgia Avenue, Statesboro, GA 30460
| | - Lorenza Beati
- U.S. National Tick Collection, Institute for Coastal Plain Science, Georgia Southern University, 202 Georgia Avenue, Statesboro, GA 30460
| | - William L. Nicholson
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, 1600 Clifton Road, NE, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333
| | - Rebecca J. Eisen
- Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3156 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO 80521
- Corresponding author,
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30
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Rosendale AJ, Dunlevy ME, McCue MD, Benoit JB. Progressive behavioural, physiological and transcriptomic shifts over the course of prolonged starvation in ticks. Mol Ecol 2019; 28:49-65. [PMID: 30449039 DOI: 10.1111/mec.14949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are obligatorily hematophagous but spend the majority of their lives off host in an unfed state where they must resist starvation between bouts of blood feeding. Survival during these extended off-host periods is critical to the success of these arthropods as vectors of disease; however, little is known about the underlying physiological and molecular mechanisms of starvation tolerance in ticks. We examined the bioenergetic, transcriptomic and behavioural changes of female American dog ticks, Dermacentor variabilis, throughout starvation (up to nine months post-bloodmeal). As starvation progressed, ticks utilized glycogen and lipid, and later protein as energy reserves with proteolysis and autophagy facilitating the mobilization of endogenous nutrients. The metabolic rate of the ticks was expectedly low, but showed a slight increase as starvation progressed possibly reflecting the upregulation of several energetically costly processes such as transcription/translation and/or increases in host-seeking behaviours. Starved ticks had higher activity levels, increased questing behaviour and augmented expression of genes related to chemosensing, immunity and salivary gland proteins. The shifts in gene expression and associated behavioural and physiological processes are critical to allowing these parasites to exploit their ecological niche as extreme sit-and-wait parasites. The overall responses of ticks to starvation were similar to other blood-feeding arthropods, but we identified unique responses that could have epidemiological and ecological significance for ticks as ectoparasites that must be tolerant of sporadic feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Rosendale
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Megan E Dunlevy
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | | | - Joshua B Benoit
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
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31
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Modeling the Distribution of Medically Important Tick Species in Florida. INSECTS 2019; 10:insects10070190. [PMID: 31261713 PMCID: PMC6681331 DOI: 10.3390/insects10070190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The lone star (Amblyomma americanum), black-legged (Ixodes scapularis) and American dog ticks (Dermacentor variabilis) are species of great public health importance as they are competent vectors of several notable pathogens. While the regional distributions of these species are well characterized, more localized distribution estimates are sparse. We used records of field collected ticks and an ensemble modeling approach to predict habitat suitability for each of these species in Florida. Environmental variables capturing climatic extremes were common contributors to habitat suitability. Most frequently, annual precipitation (Bio12), mean temperature of the driest quarter (Bio9), minimum temperature of the coldest month (Bio6), and mean Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) were included in the final models for each species. Agreement between the modeling algorithms used in this study was high and indicated the distribution of suitable habitat for all three species was reduced at lower latitudes. These findings are important for raising awareness of the potential for tick-borne pathogens in Florida.
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Hecht JA, Allerdice MEJ, Dykstra EA, Mastel L, Eisen RJ, Johnson TL, Gaff HD, Varela-Stokes AS, Goddard J, Pagac BB, Paddock CD, Karpathy SE. Multistate Survey of American Dog Ticks ( Dermacentor variabilis) for Rickettsia Species. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2019; 19:652-657. [PMID: 30942664 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2018.2415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Dermacentor variabilis, a common human-biting tick found throughout the eastern half and along the west coast of the United States, is a vector of multiple bacterial pathogens. Historically, D. variabilis has been considered a primary vector of Rickettsia rickettsii, the causative agent of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. A total of 883 adult D. variabilis, collected between 2012 and 2017 from various locations in 12 states across the United States, were screened for rickettsial DNA. Tick extracts were evaluated using three real-time PCR assays; an R. rickettsii-specific assay, a Rickettsia bellii-specific assay, and a Rickettsia genus-specific assay. Sequencing of ompA gene amplicons generated using a seminested PCR assay was used to determine the rickettsial species present in positive samples not already identified by species-specific real-time assays. A total of 87 (9.9%) tick extracts contained R. bellii DNA and 203 (23%) contained DNA of other rickettsial species, including 47 (5.3%) with Rickettsia montanensis, 11 (1.2%) with Rickettsia amblyommatis, 2 (0.2%) with Rickettsia rhipicephali, and 3 (0.3%) with Rickettsia parkeri. Only 1 (0.1%) tick extract contained DNA of R. rickettsii. These data support multiple other contemporary studies that indicate infrequent detection of R. rickettsii in D. variabilis in North America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy A Hecht
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Michelle E J Allerdice
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Elizabeth A Dykstra
- Zoonotic Disease Program, Washington State Department of Health, Olympia, Washington
| | - Laura Mastel
- Division of Microbiology Lab Services, North Dakota Department of Health, Bismarck, North Dakota
| | - Rebecca J Eisen
- Bacterial Diseases Branch, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Ft. Collins, Colorado
| | - Tammi L Johnson
- Bacterial Diseases Branch, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Ft. Collins, Colorado
| | | | - Andrea S Varela-Stokes
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi
| | - Jerome Goddard
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi
| | | | - Christopher D Paddock
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sandor E Karpathy
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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Kessler WH, Blackburn JK, Sayler KA, Glass GE. Estimating the Geographic Distribution of Host-Seeking Adult Amblyomma americanum (Acari: Ixodidae) in Florida. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2019; 56:55-64. [PMID: 30169746 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjy147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, is the most commonly reported human-biting tick in the southeastern United States and is a vector for several human and livestock pathogens. Although it is endemic to Florida, little is known about the ecological preferences and current spatial distribution within the state. Using occurrence records of adult A. americanum collected between August 2015 and September 2016, a logistic regression model was used to estimate environmental associations, as well as to predict the distribution of the tick at a one hectare resolution. Occurrence of adult lone star ticks was associated with land cover and bioclimatic variables, namely the presence of forested areas and precipitation seasonality. The estimated spatial distribution indicated that central and northern regions show greater suitability than the southern half of the state. Furthermore, areas predicted to be suitable for the species decreases from north to south with very little area deemed suitable in the far southern reaches of the state. High heterogeneity in the distribution of suitable habitat has implications for the distribution of tick-borne disease cases in the state. The subcounty resolution of the estimated distribution is an improvement over distributions currently published and may better inform the public and state or federal agencies of potential risk of exposure to A. americanum and its associated pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Kessler
- Department of Geography, University of Florida, Turlington Hall, Gainesville, FL
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, owry Road, Gainesville, FL
| | - Jason K Blackburn
- Department of Geography, University of Florida, Turlington Hall, Gainesville, FL
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, owry Road, Gainesville, FL
| | - Katherine A Sayler
- Department of Wildlife Ecology & Conservation, University of Florida, Newins-Ziegler Hall, Gainesville, FL
| | - Gregory E Glass
- Department of Geography, University of Florida, Turlington Hall, Gainesville, FL
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, owry Road, Gainesville, FL
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Gao X, Cao Z. Meteorological conditions, elevation and land cover as predictors for the distribution analysis of visceral leishmaniasis in Sinkiang province, Mainland China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 646:1111-1116. [PMID: 30235597 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.07.391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a fatal disease caused by sandfly-borne protozoa of the Leishmania genus. This study explored the influence of environmental factors on the distribution of VL in Sinkiang province, Mainland China, which is a known natural focus of leishmaniasis. Disease identification records were obtained from publicly available data, in which the existence of VL at each geographical location had been recorded as part of the surveillance of leishmaniasis in Sinkiang province. Maximum entropy modelling (Maxent) was used to predict the distribution of VL across Sinkiang province, and to match this distribution against environmental variables relating to elevation, climate and land cover, obtained from the WorldClim database, China Meteorological Data Sharing System and the National Geomatic Center of China dataset, respectively. Finally, a regional-scale map was developed to show the potential distribution of VL in the Sinkiang province. Receiver-Operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the performance of the model. The daily average temperature, maximum temperature of the warmest quarter, daily precipitation and precipitation of the driest month were each found to be predictive of the distribution of VL in Sinkiang. Moreover, we found that presence of VL was significantly influenced by the distribution of grassland and shrubland. The results demonstrate that with proper construction and design, probability surfaces using Maxent can be used as an accurate method by which to predict the distribution of VL in Sinkiang province. The information generated by the model could be used to inform the design of detailed prevention and control strategies for leishmaniasis in this region of Mainland China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Gao
- Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education, Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Zheng Cao
- Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education, Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, PR China.
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Gao X, Xiao JH, Liu BY, Wang HB. Impact of meteorological and geographical factors on the distribution of Phlebotomus chinensis in northwestern mainland China. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 32:365-371. [PMID: 29808937 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Phlebotomine sandflies (Diptera: Phlebotomidae) are vectors of the zoonotic disease leishmaniasis. To better understand the distribution of phlebotomine sandflies in order to facilitate control of leishmaniasis transmission, the present study explored the impacts of climate and landscape on local abundances of Phlebotomus chinensis in northwestern mainland China. Identification records were used to create a geodatabase for the locations at which P. chinensis had been collected in the region, and a regional-scale map was developed to show the distribution of P. chinensis. Location data and data on environmental factors during the years in which the samples were collected were incorporated, and a presence-only modelling method was used to evaluate the species' habitat preferences and to predict its potential distribution in northwestern mainland China. Jackknife analysis revealed that several meteorological variables, including maximum temperature in the warmest quarter, precipitation in the driest month, daily average temperature and daily precipitation, significantly affected the presence of this species. Moreover, the presence of P. chinensis was significantly associated with grassland and shrubland. Probability distributions using maximum entropy were used to map the distribution ranges of P. chinensis based on suitable habitats in northwestern mainland China. The models generated can be used to develop detailed strategies for the prevention and control of leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Gao
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - J H Xiao
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - B Y Liu
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - H B Wang
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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Modelling the distribution of Rhipicephalus microplus and R. decoloratus in Zimbabwe. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2018; 14:41-49. [PMID: 31014735 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2018.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2018] [Revised: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Species distribution modelling is a very useful tool in vector management. Ticks are vectors of various pathogens which cause serious problems in livestock production in tropical countries. They have a high dispersal potential which is mainly facilitated by the movement of animals from one area to another. In light of the observed geographic expansion of Rhipicephalus microplus in Zimbabwe, we used species distribution modelling techniques to identify areas which may provide suitable habitats for the occurrence of this invasive tick species as well as the autochthonous Rhipicephalus decoloratus. Our results suggest that, despite the geographic expansion of R. microplus, climate will continue to be a limiting factor for the further expansion of this tick species. We expect its distribution to be restricted to the most favourable areas in the eastern and northern parts. The greater part of Zimbabwe is suitable for R. decoloratus, although in areas where R. microplus occurs, displacement of the former by the latter will be expected to occur. A heterogeneous climate, unregulated movement of cattle and episodic droughts are suggested to be possible factors for the continued existence of R. microplus and R. decoloratus in Zimbabwe and the partial displacement.
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Nieto NC, Porter WT, Wachara JC, Lowrey TJ, Martin L, Motyka PJ, Salkeld DJ. Using citizen science to describe the prevalence and distribution of tick bite and exposure to tick-borne diseases in the United States. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0199644. [PMID: 30001350 PMCID: PMC6042714 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0199644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne pathogens are increasing their range and incidence in North America as a consequence of numerous factors including improvements in diagnostics and diagnosis, range expansion of primary vectors, changes in human behavior, and an increasing understanding of the diversity of species of pathogens that cause human disease. Public health agencies have access to human incidence data on notifiable diseases e.g., Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease, and often local pathogen prevalence in vector populations. However, data on exposure to vectors and pathogens can be difficult to determine e.g., if disease does not occur. We report on an investigation of exposure to ticks and tick-borne bacteria, conducted at a national scale, using citizen science participation. 16,080 ticks were submitted between January 2016 and August 2017, and screened for B. burgdorferi, B. miyamotoi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Babesia microti. These data corroborate entomologic investigations of tick distributions in North America, but also identify patterns of local disease risk and tick contact with humans throughout the year in numerous species of ticks and associated pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan C. Nieto
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - W. Tanner Porter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Julie C. Wachara
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Thomas J. Lowrey
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Luke Martin
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
| | - Peter J. Motyka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Daniel J. Salkeld
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
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Kaufman EL, Stone NE, Scoles GA, Hepp CM, Busch JD, Wagner DM. Range-wide genetic analysis of Dermacentor variabilis and its Francisella-like endosymbionts demonstrates phylogeographic concordance between both taxa. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:306. [PMID: 29776375 PMCID: PMC5960137 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2886-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis, is an important vector of pathogens to humans, wildlife and domestic animals in North America. Although this tick species is widely distributed in the USA and Canada, knowledge of its range-wide phylogeographic patterns remains incomplete. METHODS We carried out a phylogenetic analysis of D. variabilis using samples collected from 26 USA states and five Canadian provinces. Tick samples (n = 1053 in total) originated from two main sources: existing archives (2000-2011), and new collections made from 2012 to 2013. We sequenced a 691 bp fragment of the cox1 gene from a subset (n = 332) of geographically diverse D. variabilis. DNA extracted from individual ticks (n = 1053) was also screened for a Francisella-like endosymbiont, using a targeted 16S rRNA sequencing approach, and important pathogens (Rickettsia spp. and Coxiella burnetii), using species-specific quantitative PCR assays. RESULTS Maximum parsimony analysis of cox1 sequences revealed two major groups within D. variabilis with distinct geographical distributions: one from the eastern USA/Canada (Group 1) and one from the west coast states of the USA (California and Washington; Group 2). However, genetic subdivisions within both of these two major groups were weak to moderate and not tightly correlated with geography. We found molecular signatures consistent with Francisella-like endosymbionts in 257 of the DNA extracts from the 1053 individual ticks, as well as Rickettsia spp. and Coxiella burnetii in a small number of ticks (n = 29 and 2, respectively). Phylogenetic patterns for Francisella-like endosymbionts, constructed using sequence data from the bacterial 16S rRNA locus, were similar to those for D. variabilis, with two major groups that had a nearly perfect one-to-one correlation with the two major groups within D. variabilis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings reveal a distinct phylogenetic split between the two major D. variabilis populations. However, high levels of genetic mixture among widely separated geographical localities occur within each of these two major groups. Furthermore, our phylogenetic analyses provide evidence of long-term tick-symbiont co-evolution. This work has implications for understanding the dispersal and evolutionary ecology of D. variabilis and associated vector-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Kaufman
- Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, PO Box 4073, Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA
| | - Nathan E Stone
- Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, PO Box 4073, Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA
| | - Glen A Scoles
- USDA, ARS, Animal Disease Research Unit, 3003 ADBF, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Crystal M Hepp
- School of Informatics, Computing, and Cyber Systems, Northern Arizona University, PO Box 5693, Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA
| | - Joseph D Busch
- Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, PO Box 4073, Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA
| | - David M Wagner
- Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, PO Box 4073, Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA.
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Cao Z, Jin Y, Shen T, Xu F, Li Y. Risk factors and distribution for peste des petits ruminants (PPR) in Mainland China. Small Rumin Res 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2017.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Merrill MM, Boughton RK, Lord CC, Sayler KA, Wight B, Anderson WM, Wisely SM. Wild pigs as sentinels for hard ticks: A case study from south-central Florida. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2018; 7:161-170. [PMID: 29988828 PMCID: PMC6032497 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
As a result of shifts in the habitable range of ticks due to climate change and the ongoing threat of exotic tick species introductions, efficient surveillance tools for these pests and disease vectors are needed. Wild pigs are habitat generalists, distributed throughout most of the United States, and often hunted recreationally or removed as part of management programs, making them potentially useful sentinel hosts for ticks. We compared ticks collected from captured wild pigs and standard tick dragging methods on a south-central Florida cattle ranch from May 2015-August 2017. Three hundred and sixteen wild pigs were surveyed, and 84 km spanning three habitat types (seminative pasture, improved pasture, and hammock) were dragged. In total, 1023 adults of four species (Amblyomma auricularium, Amblyomma maculatum, Dermacentor variabilis, and Ixodes scapularis) were collected from wild pigs, while 39 adults of three species (A. auricularium, A. maculatum, and I. scapularis) were collected from drags. Only one immature specimen, a nymph, was collected from a pig, while dragging collected 2808 larvae and 150 nymphs. Amblyomma maculatum comprised 96% of adults collected from pigs, while A. maculatum, I. scapularis, and A. auricularium comprised 38%, 33%, and 28% of adults collected from drags, respectively. Adults of all tick species found on drags were found on pigs, and wild pig surveillance detected adults of an additional species not found on drags. Dragging was far superior for collection of immatures but not for adults of most species found in this study. These findings suggest wild pigs could be used as a sentinel for the detection of tick species. When combined with ongoing wild pig research, hunting, or management, wild pig surveillance can provide an effective method to survey for adult tick presence of some species of interest and may assist in tracking the range expansion of some tick species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary M Merrill
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, PO Box 100188, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Raoul K Boughton
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Cynthia C Lord
- Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, 200 9th St SE, Vero Beach, FL 32962, USA
| | - Katherine A Sayler
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Bethany Wight
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Wesley M Anderson
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Samantha M Wisely
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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Sonenshine DE. Range Expansion of Tick Disease Vectors in North America: Implications for Spread of Tick-Borne Disease. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018. [PMID: 29522469 PMCID: PMC5877023 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15030478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Ticks are the major vectors of most disease-causing agents to humans, companion animals and wildlife. Moreover, ticks transmit a greater variety of pathogenic agents than any other blood-feeding arthropod. Ticks have been expanding their geographic ranges in recent decades largely due to climate change. Furthermore, tick populations in many areas of their past and even newly established localities have increased in abundance. These dynamic changes present new and increasing severe public health threats to humans, livestock and companion animals in areas where they were previously unknown or were considered to be of minor importance. Here in this review, the geographic status of four representative tick species are discussed in relation to these public health concerns, namely, the American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis, the lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, the Gulf Coast Tick, Amblyomma maculatum and the black-legged tick, Ixodes scapularis. Both biotic and abiotic factors that may influence future range expansion and successful colony formation in new habitats are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel E Sonenshine
- Laboratory for Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20852, USA.
- Department of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529, USA.
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Gao SB, Mo LD, Zhang LH, Zhang JL, Wu JB, Wang JL, Zhao NX, Gao YB. Phenotypic plasticity vs. local adaptation in quantitative traits differences of Stipa grandis in semi-arid steppe, China. Sci Rep 2018; 8:3148. [PMID: 29453378 PMCID: PMC5816645 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-21557-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Whether plants are able to adapt to environmental changes depends on their genetic characteristics and phenotypic plastic responses. We investigated the phenotypic responses of 7 populations of an important dominant species in semi-arid steppe of China - Stipa grandis, and then distinguished which adaptive mechanism(s), phenotypic plasticity or local adaptation, was/were involved in this species to adapt to environmental changes. (1) All traits were significantly influenced by the interaction of population and growth condition and by population in each condition, and inter-population variability (CVinter) was larger in the field than in the common garden for 8/9 traits, indicating that both phenotypic plasticity and genetic differentiation controlled the phenotypic differences of S. grandis. (2) From a functional standpoint, the significant relationships between the values of traits in the common garden and the environmental variables in their original habitats couldn't support local habitat adaptation of these traits. (3) Low CVintra, low quantitative differentiation among populations (Q ST ), and low plasticity shown in the western populations indicated the very low adaptive potential of S. grandis to environmental changes. (4) From the original habitats to the common garden which is far away from S. grandis distribution region, positive phenotypic responses were found in several populations, indicating that some original habitats have become unfavorable for S. grandis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Bo Gao
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P.R. China
| | - Li-Dong Mo
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P.R. China
| | - Li-Hong Zhang
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Li Zhang
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Bo Wu
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Long Wang
- College of Agronomy & Resources and Environment, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin, 300384, P.R. China
| | - Nian-Xi Zhao
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P.R. China.
| | - Yu-Bao Gao
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P.R. China
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Eisen RJ, Kugeler KJ, Eisen L, Beard CB, Paddock CD. Tick-Borne Zoonoses in the United States: Persistent and Emerging Threats to Human Health. ILAR J 2017; 58:319-335. [PMID: 28369515 PMCID: PMC5610605 DOI: 10.1093/ilar/ilx005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In the United States, ticks transmit the greatest diversity of arthropod-borne pathogens and are responsible for the most cases of all vector-borne diseases. In recent decades, the number of reported cases of notifiable tick-borne diseases has steadily increased, geographic distributions of many ticks and tick-borne diseases have expanded, and new tick-borne disease agents have been recognized. In this review, we (1) describe the known disease agents associated with the most commonly human-biting ixodid ticks, (2) review the natural histories of these ticks and their associated pathogens, (3) highlight spatial and temporal changes in vector tick distributions and tick-borne disease occurrence in recent decades, and (4) identify knowledge gaps and barriers to more effective prevention of tick-borne diseases. We describe 12 major tick-borne diseases caused by 15 distinct disease agents that are transmitted by the 8 most commonly human-biting ixodid ticks in the United States. Notably, 40% of these pathogens were described within the last two decades. Our assessment highlights the importance of animal studies to elucidate how tick-borne pathogens are maintained in nature, as well as advances in molecular detection of pathogens which has led to the discovery of several new tick-borne disease agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Eisen
- Rebecca J. Eisen, PhD, is a Research Biologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Kiersten J. Kugeler, PhD, is an Epidemiologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Lars Eisen, PhD, is a Research Entomologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Charles B. Beard, PhD, is a Branch Chief in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Christopher D. Paddock, MD, is a Medical Officer/Pathologist in the Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kiersten J Kugeler
- Rebecca J. Eisen, PhD, is a Research Biologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Kiersten J. Kugeler, PhD, is an Epidemiologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Lars Eisen, PhD, is a Research Entomologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Charles B. Beard, PhD, is a Branch Chief in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Christopher D. Paddock, MD, is a Medical Officer/Pathologist in the Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Lars Eisen
- Rebecca J. Eisen, PhD, is a Research Biologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Kiersten J. Kugeler, PhD, is an Epidemiologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Lars Eisen, PhD, is a Research Entomologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Charles B. Beard, PhD, is a Branch Chief in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Christopher D. Paddock, MD, is a Medical Officer/Pathologist in the Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Charles B Beard
- Rebecca J. Eisen, PhD, is a Research Biologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Kiersten J. Kugeler, PhD, is an Epidemiologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Lars Eisen, PhD, is a Research Entomologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Charles B. Beard, PhD, is a Branch Chief in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Christopher D. Paddock, MD, is a Medical Officer/Pathologist in the Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Christopher D Paddock
- Rebecca J. Eisen, PhD, is a Research Biologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Kiersten J. Kugeler, PhD, is an Epidemiologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Lars Eisen, PhD, is a Research Entomologist in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Charles B. Beard, PhD, is a Branch Chief in the Bacterial Diseases Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins, Colorado. Christopher D. Paddock, MD, is a Medical Officer/Pathologist in the Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia
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Current and potential future distribution of the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis, Say) in North America. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 9:354-362. [PMID: 29275873 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) is medically and economically important in North America. This species is found across central and eastern North America from the Gulf Coast of Mexico through southern Canada. In parts of this region, D. variabilis is a vector for pathogens that cause diseases in humans and animals. Our aim was to determine whether climate change would affect the distribution of the climatically suitable area for D. variabilis in North America, to aid monitoring for potential future spread of tick-borne pathogens. We developed a species distribution model for D. variabilis to project where climate will likely be suitable for the tick in North America using a maximum entropy method, occurrence records from museum and laboratory archives, and 10 environmental variables relevant to climate requirements for the tick. We used four emissions scenarios from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Fifth Assessment Report and 10 climate models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (phase 5) to estimate potential future climate suitability and determine how the tick's distribution could change. Our consensus model projected that the area of suitable climate in North America could increase from present by approximately 50% by 2070. In areas beyond the current northern limit of D. variabilis, climate could become more suitable for the tick than at present, possibly resulting in a northward expansion in Canada, but the potential suitability of the southern range of D. variabilis could decrease, depending on the region and climate model. Due to the ability of D. variabilis to harbor and transmit pathogens, a change in the distribution of this species could also affect the risk of human and animal diseases throughout North America, particularly in the northern range of the tick.
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Hansford KM, Pietzsch ME, Cull B, Gillingham EL, Medlock JM. Potential risk posed by the importation of ticks into the UK on animals: records from the Tick Surveillance Scheme. Vet Rec 2017; 182:107. [PMID: 29217768 DOI: 10.1136/vr.104263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In order to monitor important tick vectors in the UK, Public Health England's Tick Surveillance Scheme (TSS) receives specimens from across the country for identification. In recent years, an increasing number of these specimens have been removed from animals with a recent history of travel outside the UK. This paper presents all data collated by the TSS on ticks entering the country on recently travelled or imported animals since surveillance commenced in 2005. Ten different tick species representing six different genera were identified, entering the UK from 15 different countries. Key themes appear to be emerging from the last 10 years of data, including canine travel from Cyprus and Spain being associated with Rhipicephalus sanguineus importation, and canine travel from France being associated with the importation of multiple tick species and canine illness. In addition, more unusual importation routes have been uncovered, such as the importation of Hyalomma lusitanicum on a dog. Some companion animal owners may not be fully aware of the risks associated with ticks, and may not seek advice from a veterinarian before travel or importing a pet. Promoting awareness of ticks and tickborne disease risk during and after travel or animal importation is needed and veterinarians play an importation role in disseminating this information to their clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayleigh M Hansford
- Department of Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department - Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK.,NIHR Health Protection Research Unit, Environmental Change & Health, UK
| | - Maaike E Pietzsch
- Department of Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department - Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Benjamin Cull
- Department of Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department - Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Emma L Gillingham
- Department of Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department - Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Jolyon M Medlock
- Department of Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department - Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK.,NIHR Health Protection Research Unit, Environmental Change & Health, UK.,NIHR Health Protection Research Unit, Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, UK
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Rosendale AJ, Romick-Rosendale LE, Watanabe M, Dunlevy ME, Benoit JB. Mechanistic underpinnings of dehydration stress in the American dog tick revealed through RNA-Seq and metabolomics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 219:1808-19. [PMID: 27307540 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.137315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are obligate blood feeders but spend the majority of their lifetime off-host where they must contend with a multitude of environmental stresses. Survival under desiccating conditions is a determinant for habitats where ticks can become established, and water-balance characteristics of ticks have been extensively studied. However, little is known about the underlying aspects associated with dehydration stress in ticks. In this study, we examined the response of male American dog ticks, Dermacentor variabilis, to dehydration using a combined transcriptomics and metabolomics approach. During dehydration, 497 genes were differentially expressed, including an up-regulation of stress-response and protein-catabolism genes and concurrent down-regulation of several energetically expensive biological processes. Accumulation of several metabolites, including specific amino acids, glycerol and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), and transcript shifts in the associated pathways for generating these metabolites indicated congruence between changes in the metabolome and gene expression. Ticks treated with exogenous glycerol and GABA demonstrated altered water-balance characteristics; specifically, increased water absorption at high relative humidity. Finally, we observed changes in locomotor activity in response to dehydration, but this change was not influenced by the accumulation of GABA. Overall, the responses to dehydration by these ticks were similar to those observed in other dehydration-tolerant arthropods, but several molecular and behavioral responses are distinct from those associated with other taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Rosendale
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
| | | | - Miki Watanabe
- Division of Pathology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Megan E Dunlevy
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
| | - Joshua B Benoit
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
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Mitcham JR, Barrett AW, Gruntmeir JM, Holland T, Martin JE, Johnson EM, Little SE, Noden BH. Active surveillance to update county scale distribution of four tick species of medical and veterinary importance in Oklahoma. JOURNAL OF VECTOR ECOLOGY : JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR VECTOR ECOLOGY 2017; 42:60-73. [PMID: 28504425 DOI: 10.1111/jvec.12240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of tick-borne disease continues to increase in humans and companion animals in the United States, yet distribution maps for several tick vectors in Oklahoma, including Dermacentor variabilis, Dermacentor albipictus, Ixodes scapularis, and Amblyomma maculatum, are not available or are outdated. To address this issue, county-scale tick records from peer-reviewed literature and passive collections were reviewed for Oklahoma. Additionally, dry ice traps, tick drags, and harvested deer were utilized to actively collect adult ticks throughout the state. Through these methods, D. variabilis, D. albipictus, I. scapularis, and A. maculatum were identified in 88% (68/77), 45.4% (35/77), 66.2% (51/77), and 64.9% (50/77) of the counties in Oklahoma, respectively. Baseline maps were developed for the distribution of D. variabilis and D. albipictus and distribution maps were updated for I. scapularis and A. maculatum. This data confirms that these four species of ticks continue to be widespread within Oklahoma with a western expansion of the range of I. scapularis within the state. These results assist efforts to better understand the epidemiology of the different diseases caused by pathogens transmitted by these tick species within the Great Plains region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Mitcham
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, 127 Noble Research Center, Stillwater, OK 74078, U.S.A
| | - Anne W Barrett
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, U.S.A
| | - Jeff M Gruntmeir
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, U.S.A
| | - Taylor Holland
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, U.S.A
| | - Jaclyn E Martin
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, 127 Noble Research Center, Stillwater, OK 74078, U.S.A
| | - Eileen M Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, U.S.A
| | - Susan E Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, 250 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, U.S.A
| | - Bruce H Noden
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, 127 Noble Research Center, Stillwater, OK 74078, U.S.A
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Durden LA, Beckmen KB, Gerlach RF. New Records of Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) From Dogs, Cats, Humans, and Some Wild Vertebrates in Alaska: Invasion Potential. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2016; 53:1391-1395. [PMID: 27524823 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjw128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
During 2010-2016, tick specimens were solicited from veterinarians, biologists, and members of the public in Alaska. Eight species of ticks were recorded from domestic dogs. Some ticks were collected from dogs with recent travel histories to other countries or other U.S. states, which appears to explain records of ticks not native to Alaska such as Amblyomma americanum (L.) (lone star tick), Ixodes scapularis (Say) (blacklegged tick), and Ixodes ricinus (L.). However, we recorded Dermacentor variabilis (Say) (American dog tick) from dogs (and humans) both with and without travel history, suggesting that this nonindigenous tick could be establishing populations in Alaska. Other ticks commonly recorded from dogs included the indigenous Ixodes angustus Neumann and the invasive Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille) (brown dog tick). Domestic cats were only parasitized by one tick species, the native I. angustus Six species of ticks were recorded from humans: A. americanum (with and without travel history), Dermacentor andersoni Stiles (Rocky Mountain wood tick; travel associated), D. variabilis (with and without travel history), Haemaphysalis leporispalustris (Packard) (rabbit tick, native to Alaska), I. angustus, and R. sanguineus. Ixodes angustus predominated among tick collections from native mammals. Also, Ixodes texanus Banks (first record from Alaska) was collected from an American marten, Martes americana (Turton), H. leporispalustris was recorded from a snowshoe hare, Lepus americanus Erxleben, and Ixodes auritulus Neumann was collected from a Northwestern crow, Corvus caurinus Baird. The establishment of D. variabilis, D. andersoni, A. americanum, and/or I. scapularis in Alaska would have strong implications for animal and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lance A Durden
- Department of Biology, Georgia Southern University, 4324 Old Register Rd., Statesboro, GA 30458
| | | | - Robert F Gerlach
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Wildlife Health and Disease Surveillance Program, Division of Wildlife Conservation, 1300 College Rd., Fairbanks, AK 99701
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Predicting the potential environmental suitability for Theileria orientalis transmission in New Zealand cattle using maximum entropy niche modelling. Vet Parasitol 2016; 224:82-91. [PMID: 27270395 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The tick-borne haemoparasite Theileria orientalis is the most important infectious cause of anaemia in New Zealand cattle. Since 2012 a previously unrecorded type, T. orientalis type 2 (Ikeda), has been associated with disease outbreaks of anaemia, lethargy, jaundice and deaths on over 1000 New Zealand cattle farms, with most of the affected farms found in the upper North Island. The aim of this study was to model the relative environmental suitability for T. orientalis transmission throughout New Zealand, to predict the proportion of cattle farms potentially suitable for active T. orientalis infection by region, island and the whole of New Zealand and to estimate the average relative environmental suitability per farm by region, island and the whole of New Zealand. The relative environmental suitability for T. orientalis transmission was estimated using the Maxent (maximum entropy) modelling program. The Maxent model predicted that 99% of North Island cattle farms (n=36,257), 64% South Island cattle farms (n=15,542) and 89% of New Zealand cattle farms overall (n=51,799) could potentially be suitable for T. orientalis transmission. The average relative environmental suitability of T. orientalis transmission at the farm level was 0.34 in the North Island, 0.02 in the South Island and 0.24 overall. The study showed that the potential spatial distribution of T. orientalis environmental suitability was much greater than presumed in the early part of the Theileria associated bovine anaemia (TABA) epidemic. Maximum entropy offers a computer efficient method of modelling the probability of habitat suitability for an arthropod vectored disease. This model could help estimate the boundaries of the endemically stable and endemically unstable areas for T. orientalis transmission within New Zealand and be of considerable value in informing practitioner and farmer biosecurity decisions in these respective areas.
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Greay TL, Oskam CL, Gofton AW, Rees RL, Ryan UM, Irwin PJ. A survey of ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) of companion animals in Australia. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:207. [PMID: 27160149 PMCID: PMC4862205 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1480-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ticks are among the most important vectors of pathogens affecting companion animals, and also cause health problems such as tick paralysis, anaemia, dermatitis, and secondary infections. Twenty ixodid species have previously been recorded on dogs, cats, and horses in Australia, including Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Ixodes holocyclus and Haemaphysalis longicornis, which transmit tick-borne diseases. A survey of hard ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) was conducted during 2012-2015 to investigate tick species that infest dogs, cats, and horses in Australia. METHODS Individual tick specimens were collected from dogs, cats and horses across Australia and sample collection locations were mapped using QGIS software. Ticks were morphologically examined to determine species, instar and sex. The companion animal owners responded to questionnaires and data collected were summarised with SPSS software. RESULTS A total of 4765 individual ticks were identified in this study from 7/8 states and territories in Australia. Overall, 220 larvae, 805 nymphs, 1404 males, and 2336 females of 11 tick species were identified from 837 companion animal hosts. One novel host record was obtained during this study for Ixodes myrmecobii, which was found on Felis catus (domestic cat) in the town of Esperance, Western Australia. The most common tick species identified included R. sanguineus on dogs (73 %), I. holocyclus on cats (81 %) and H. longicornis on horses (60 %). CONCLUSIONS This study is the first of its kind to be conducted in Australia and our results contribute to the understanding of the species and distribution of ticks that parasitise dogs, cats, and horses in Australia. Records of R. sanguineus outside of the recorded distribution range emphasise the need for a systematic study of the habitat range of this species. Several incomplete descriptions of ixodid species encountered in this study hindered morphological identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Telleasha L. Greay
- />Vector and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Laboratory, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia Australia
| | - Charlotte L. Oskam
- />Vector and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Laboratory, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia Australia
| | - Alexander W. Gofton
- />Vector and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Laboratory, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia Australia
| | | | - Una M. Ryan
- />Vector and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Laboratory, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia Australia
| | - Peter J. Irwin
- />Vector and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Laboratory, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia Australia
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