Otobius spp.
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| Otobius spp. | |
|---|---|
| Class | Arachnida |
| Order | Parasitiformes |
| Family | Argasidae |
Otobius megnini
Also known as: Spinose ear tick
Hosts
Sheep, dogs, horses, cattle, and occasionally humans
Identification
The females are between 5-8mm in length, and the males are slightly smaller. They have a granular integument, and a light blue body with light yellow legs.
Life Cycle
The larval and nymphal stages are parasitic, but the adults are not. Eggs are laid and occupy cracks in the shelters etc. where the hosts live. The larvae may survive without food for a long period of time.
The larvae moult in ears and may remain there for several months. After this they drop of the host. The adults do no feed, and are capable of living in the cracks for long periods of time.
Otobius lagophilus
Also known as: Rabbit ear tick
Hosts
Rabbits
Life Cycle
This is a one-host tick, and only the larvae and nymphs are parasitic.
Literature Search
Use these links to find recent scientific publications via CAB Abstracts (log in required unless accessing from a subscribing organisation).
Otobius spp. publications