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Updated: Jul 4, 2026

A Versatile Model of Hard Tick Infestation on Laboratory Rabbits
Published on: October 6, 2018
Ticks infesting domestic animals in northern Greece
Vasiliki Pavlidou1, Spyros Gerou, Melania Kahrimanidou
1Department of Microbiology (WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Arboviruses and Hemorrhagic Fever Viruses), Medical School, Aristotle University, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece.
This study identified tick species on grazing animals in Northern Greece from 2003-2006. Ixodes ricinus and Rhipicephalus bursa were the most common tick species found, highlighting potential tick-borne disease risks.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Entomology
- Parasitology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Ticks pose significant threats to livestock health and can transmit various diseases.
- Understanding tick populations is crucial for managing animal health and preventing disease outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the diversity and prevalence of tick species infesting grazing animals in Northern Greece.
- To provide insights into the ecological distribution of ticks in the region.
Main Methods:
- Adult ticks were collected from goats, sheep, cattle, and dogs across 11 prefectures in Northern Greece.
- Collections were conducted over multiple seasons between 2003 and 2006.
- Ticks were identified to species level.
Main Results:
- A total of 3,249 adult ticks were identified.
- Ixodes ricinus (44.57%) and Rhipicephalus bursa (19.14%) were the most prevalent species.
- Rhipicephalus spp. and Hyalomma spp. were widespread, while Dermacentor spp. were rare.
Conclusions:
- The study identified key tick species and their distribution on grazing animals in Northern Greece.
- Findings contribute to understanding tick ecology and the potential risk of tick-borne diseases in the region.
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