How long does the taiga tick live? - briefly
The taiga tick (Ixodes persulcatus) generally survives for about two years, progressing through egg, larva, nymph, and adult stages before dying after reproduction. Its lifespan may vary slightly with climate and host availability.
How long does the taiga tick live? - in detail
The taiga tick (Ixodes persulcatus) inhabits boreal forests of northern Eurasia. Its life cycle comprises four stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult.
- Eggs hatch within 2–4 weeks under optimal humidity (70–80 %).
- Larvae remain active for 3–6 months, feeding once before molting.
- Nymphs persist for 4–12 months, also requiring a single blood meal.
- Adults survive 6–18 months, feeding one to three times before dying.
A complete cycle typically spans 2–3 years, allowing a single tick to live up to five years when temperature remains cool, humidity high, and hosts abundant.
Environmental temperature directly affects metabolic rate; low temperatures extend developmental periods, while extreme heat accelerates mortality. Relative humidity below 50 % leads to rapid desiccation, shortening lifespan. Host availability determines feeding success; failure to obtain a blood meal during any stage can result in death within weeks.
Females lay 1 500–2 000 eggs after the final blood meal, ensuring population continuity despite individual mortality.
Overall, the taiga tick’s longevity ranges from 2 years in marginal conditions to a maximum of 5 years in stable, humid, cool habitats.