How does a tick attach to the body? - briefly
A tick inserts its barbed mouthparts, called chelicerae and hypostome, into the skin and secretes cement-like saliva that hardens to secure the attachment. This creates a stable channel through which it can feed blood for several days.
How does a tick attach to the body? - in detail
Ticks locate a host by climbing vegetation and extending forelegs to sense heat, carbon dioxide, and movement. When a suitable host passes, the tick grasps the skin with its front legs and begins the attachment process.
The mouthparts consist of a barbed hypostome, chelicerae, and palps. The hypostome, covered with backward‑pointing teeth, is driven into the epidermis. Chelicerae cut through the outer layer, allowing deeper penetration. While the hypostome anchors the parasite, the tick secretes a proteinaceous cement from its salivary glands. This cement hardens within minutes, forming a stable bond that resists host grooming and shear forces.
During feeding, the tick injects saliva containing anti‑coagulants, immunomodulators, and analgesic compounds. These substances prevent blood clotting, dampen the host’s immune response, and reduce pain, facilitating prolonged attachment. The tick’s foregut expands as it ingests blood, and the engorged body can increase its weight manyfold.
Attachment proceeds through the following steps:
- Questing and host detection.
- Grasping the skin with forelegs.
- Insertion of chelicerae and hypostome into the dermis.
- Release of cement to seal the feeding site.
- Continuous blood uptake aided by salivary secretions.
Removal requires grasping the tick close to the skin and applying steady, upward traction. Cutting the mouthparts after removal prevents the cement from remaining embedded.