Questing Behavior by Amblyomma maculatum at Semi-Field Conditions in Oklahoma

Abstract

Economically important Gulf coast tick, Amblyomma maculatum Koch, affects veterinary and public health but is difficult to find off-host in Oklahoma. The aim of the study was to use field-based caged bioassays to observe questing behavior of adult A. maculatum during 24-hour periods between March and June. A. maculatum, however, showed no questing preference for any time of day, with more than 50% questing between 1000 and 0300 hours in a 24-hour period. Questing heights were similar to those in published studies.