Modelling the field efficacy of a genetically engineered vaccine against the cattle tick, Boophilus microplus

The cattle tick Boophilus microplus Canestrini (Ixodidae) is an obligate parasite of bovines in the tropics. Vaccination against the tick, using concealed antigens, has previously been demonstrated to give partial protection which can vary under field conditions. In this paper computer modelling is used to evaluate the potential impact of the vaccine on populations of ticks on grazing cattle. The degree and duration of protection required to maintain tick numbers at acceptable levels is investigated. Results of the computer analyses have been used to guide the further development of the vaccine and to support an application for registration of the vaccine for control of the cattle tick in Australia. They demonstrate the contribution that modelling can make in evaluating the novel impacts that new technologies may have on the host-parasite relationship in different ecological environments.