How does a tick larva bite? - briefly
A larval tick penetrates the host’s epidermis with its hypostome, releasing saliva that contains anticoagulants and anesthetics while it ingests blood. After engorgement, it detaches to molt into the next developmental stage.
How does a tick larva bite? - in detail
A tick larva initiates feeding by locating a suitable host through heat, carbon‑dioxide, and movement cues. Upon contact, the larva extends its sensory palps to confirm the host’s surface, then positions its ventral capitulum—comprising the chelicerae, hypostome, and palps—against the skin.
- Penetration – The chelicerae cut a shallow incision, allowing the hypostome, a barbed structure, to embed into epidermal tissue. The barbs prevent easy removal.
- Attachment – Cement glands secrete a polymeric substance that hardens around the hypostome, creating a secure attachment within minutes.
- Salivation – The salivary glands release a cocktail of anticoagulants, immunomodulators, and analgesics. These agents inhibit clotting, suppress host immune responses, and reduce pain perception, facilitating uninterrupted blood intake.
- Blood uptake – A muscular pharynx creates negative pressure, drawing blood through the fore‑gut into the mid‑gut. The larva can ingest up to several microliters, sufficient for development to the nymphal stage.
- Detachment – After engorgement, the larva disengages by cutting the cement bond using its chelicerae, then drops off the host to molt.
The entire process typically lasts 2–5 days, depending on ambient temperature and host availability. Successful attachment requires precise coordination of mechanical penetration, chemical secretion, and physiological feeding mechanisms.