Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2025

Rearing Ixodes scapularis, the Black-legged Tick: Feeding Immature Stages on Mice
Published on: May 8, 2017
Interaction between spiders and ticks-ancient arthropod predatory behavior?
José de la Fuente1,2, Agustín Estrada-Peña3,4, Marcelo B Labruna5
1Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), SaBio, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM)-Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha (JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain. jose_delafuente@yahoo.com.
Abstract:
Ticks are ectoparasite vectors of pathogens affecting human and animal health worldwide. Rational integration of different control interventions including plant-derived repellents and acaricides, management of natural predators, and vaccines is required for innovative approaches to reduce the risks associated with ticks and tick-borne diseases. How tick populations are naturally controlled is always a question. Tick interactions with other arthropods including predators evolved from ancient times. In this study, Cretaceous (ca. 100 Mya) Burmese amber inclusions were identified as probably related to Compluriscutula vetulum (Acari: Ixodida: Ixodidae) tick larvae and spider silk. As illustrated in this study, ancient interactions between ticks and spiders may support arthropod predatory behavior as a natural control intervention. Rational integrative management of different tick control interventions including natural predators under a One Health perspective will contribute to effectively and sustainably reducing the risks associated with ticks and tick-borne diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Predator-Prey Interactions
Symbiosis
Epiphytes, Parasites, and Carnivores
Pollination and Flower Structure

