A review of filarial nematodes parasitizing tick vectors: unraveling global patterns in species diversity, host associations, and interactions with tick-borne pathogens.

Abstract

Ticks are well-known vectors of pathogens, including filarial nematodes, which can affect animal and human health. This review synthesizes current knowledge of filarial nematodes that utilize ticks as vectors, focusing on the Onchocercidae. Five genera of onchocercid filarial nematodes (Cercopithifilaria, Cherylia, Cruorifilaria, Monanema, and Yatesia) have demonstrated vector-parasite relationships with ticks, while Acanthocheilonema has only demonstrated molecular detection without confirmed vector competence. Vector competence has been experimentally proven for several species through documented development to infective stages. However, our understanding of tick-borne filarial nematodes remains limited owing to insufficient detection efforts and methodological challenges. Detection methods include traditional dissection, advanced imaging techniques such as microcomputed tomography (micro-CT), and molecular approaches, each with distinct advantages and limitations. To address knowledge gaps, future research should focus on conducting large-scale surveys of tick populations and wildlife to investigate vector competence, health impacts, and coinfection dynamics. Multi-disciplinary collaboration and community involvement in tick surveillance will advance our understanding of tick-borne filarial nematode ecology and epidemiology. Future research priorities include confirming vector competence where only molecular detection exists, investigating natural transmission patterns, and understanding the mechanisms influencing successful development in tick vectors. By addressing these knowledge gaps through systematic surveillance and experimental studies, we can better understand these complex host-parasite-vector relationships and their implications for animal health.