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Fertilization capacity of Boophilus decoloratus (Koch, 1844) (Acarina: Ixodidae)
Abstract:
Thirty individual Boophilus decoloratus (Koch, 1844) males were studied daily, some during the whole observation period of 37 days. Newly moulted males spent a mean of 3, 8 days (range 3-6 on the host before mating. Males mated with between 1-8 females (mean 4, 6), spending 2, 6 days (range 1-10) with each and 0, 5 days (range 0-4) in between females. The time spent by adult males on the host was from 9-37 days. The ability for males to produce viable offspring remained fairly constant with each successive female fertilized. Development took place in eggs produced by unfertilized female ticks but only a very small percentage (mean 0,008%) of these eggs hatched.
Insights
Male ticks Boophilus decoloratus spend several days on hosts before mating and can fertilize multiple females. Their reproductive capability remains consistent, with minimal hatching from unfertilized eggs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Entomology
- Parasitology
- Tick Biology
Background:
- Boophilus decoloratus is a significant cattle tick species.
- Understanding male tick behavior is crucial for effective tick control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pre-mating behavior and mating success of male Boophilus decoloratus on host animals.
- To determine the duration of male activity and reproductive capacity throughout their lifespan on the host.
Main Methods:
- Daily observation of 30 individual male Boophilus decoloratus over a 37-day period.
- Recording pre-mating duration, number of females mated, and time spent with each female.
- Assessing the viability of offspring from fertilized and unfertilized females.
Main Results:
- Newly moulted males spent an average of 3.8 days on the host before mating.
- Males mated with an average of 4.6 females, spending 2.6 days with each.
- Male reproductive ability remained consistent across successive matings; only 0.008% of eggs from unfertilized females hatched.
Conclusions:
- Male Boophilus decoloratus exhibit prolonged host attachment and mating activity.
- The consistent reproductive capacity of males highlights their significant role in tick population dynamics.
- Parthenogenesis in this species is negligible, emphasizing the importance of male fertilization for reproduction.
