Bionomics of Hard Ticks and Risk Factors in Larkana Division, Sindh, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: A study based on discovery of Ixodid ticks and allied risk factors was conducted in Larkana division, Sindh, Pakistan. The ticks (Acari:Ixodidae) being dangerous ectoparasites of animals have destruction on larger scale and are widely studied for their direct and indirect losses to livestock. Methods: During the study period from April 2021 to June 2022 randomly selected 3750 buffaloes were observed and only those were selected which were not treated with Acaricide and prevalence and intensity was noted alongside this seasonal variation and male and female tick infestation was also reported. Results: The collective infestation in buffaloes was 46.90% (n=1759) and its peak was reported during August and least infestation was in December, two species were discovered Hyalomma marginatum and Hyalomma truncatum. Conclusion: This study concludes that well-being of animal-handlers and livestock is on danger.