LONE STAR TICK (Amblyomma americanum)
Biology
- The Lone Star tick is a hard tick
- Only one nymphal stage is present
- Mouth parts project forward and are visible from above
- Respiratory openings (stigmata) are located near the 4th pair of legs
- A scutum, or shield like plate, is present on the back of the body and covers the entire back of the male. The scutum only covers part of the back of the female.
- Basal segment of each leg usually has a spur.
- Prominent white dot on the back of the adult female
- Vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, human monocytic ehrlichiosis (also know as – Lyme disease)
Distribution/Habits
- Generally found in the south-central and southeastern region of the US
- Commonly attach themselves to humans and animals residing indoors
- Crawl several hours before attacking
- Must have 3 blood meals to develop to the adult stage
- Adults are commonly found on large animals i.e. cattle, deer and horses
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