Ixodes scapularis

Definition

Ixodes scapularis, also known as the black-legged tick or deer tick, is a parasitic arachnid that primarily feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, and reptiles. It is a vector for several pathogens, including those causing Lyme disease and babesiosis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ixodes scapularis is the primary vector for Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease.
2. The lifecycle of Ixodes scapularis includes four stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult.
3. It commonly inhabits wooded areas and regions with high humidity where its hosts are abundant.
4. Nymphs are the most likely stage to transmit diseases to humans due to their small size and often undetected bites.
5. Control methods include personal protective measures like using insect repellent and environmental management such as reducing leaf litter.

Review Questions

Related terms

Borrelia burgdorferi:

A spirochete bacterium transmitted by Ixodes scapularis that causes Lyme disease.

Babesiosis: A malaria-like parasitic disease caused by Babesia species, often transmitted by Ixodes scapularis.

Vector-Borne Disease: An illness caused by pathogens transmitted through vectors like ticks or mosquitoes.