Prevalence and Distribution of Hard Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) in Domestic Animals from Solapur District, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

In the present study, species diversity, prevalence and distribution of hard ticks was conducted along six substations; Barshi city, Gadegaon, Khandavi, Soundare, Ridhore and Wadshinge from Barshi and Madha Taluka of Solapur District, Maharashtra, India. Hard ticks were collected from domestic animals (canines, cattle and cats) monthly from January 2021 to December 2021. A total of 450 domestic animals were inspected, of which 233 animals comprising 103 canine, 108 cattle and 22 cats were infested with ticks. 2 species of hard ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Rhipicephalus microplus) were recorded from the study area. Recorded ticks revealed higher density and a serious infestation in studied domestic animals. In dogs, maximum density of ticks was recorded in and around ear and the neck, compared to appendages, abdomen, back and perianal region. While in cattle, abundance of ticks was found around the neck region (crest and dewlap), ear, and from the tail, head to the udder region. Cats revealed higher density of tick infestation to the ear only. This could be attributed to the abiotic factors like hot and arid climate of the study area for which the ticks show highest adaptation. Regular monitoring of the health, vaccination against bacterial and viral pathogens and to maintain health and hygiene of the domestic animals is recommended. Plant-based acaricidal compounds should be used for prevention and control of hard ticks. Study suggests practice of integrated approaches to manage the hard ticks in a sustainable manner.