How many tick species exist in the world? - briefly
Approximately 900 described tick species are known worldwide, distributed among the families Ixodidae, Argasidae, and Nuttalliellidae. This figure reflects current taxonomic consensus.
How many tick species exist in the world? - in detail
Approximately 950 described tick species are recognized worldwide, distributed among three families: Ixodidae (hard ticks), Argasidae (soft ticks), and Nuttalliellidae (a single species).
The hard‑tick family dominates the count, comprising roughly 800 species across 20 genera such as Ixodes, Rhipicephalus, Amblyomma, and Dermacentor. The soft‑tick family contributes about 140 species within five genera, including Argas and Ornithodoros. The monotypic family Nuttalliellidae contains Nuttalliella namaqua, a relic species found in southern Africa.
Geographic patterns reflect ecological specialization:
- Temperate zones host the greatest diversity of hard ticks, especially Ixodes spp. that parasitize mammals and birds.
- Arid and semi‑arid regions favor soft ticks, which occupy nests and burrows.
- Tropical rainforests sustain a high number of both families, with many endemic species yet to be formally described.
Taxonomic research continues to refine these figures. Molecular phylogenetics has revealed cryptic lineages, prompting the description of new species at an average rate of 5–10 per year since the early 2000s. Consequently, the total number of recognized taxa is expected to rise modestly, potentially exceeding 1,000 within the next decade.
Key points summarizing current knowledge:
- Total described species: ~950 (hard ticks ~800, soft ticks ~140, Nuttalliellidae 1).
- Major families: Ixodidae, Argasidae, Nuttalliellidae.
- Principal genera: Ixodes, Rhipicephalus, Amblyomma, Dermacentor, Argas, Ornithodoros.
- Ongoing discoveries: 5–10 new species annually, driven by molecular analyses.
- Anticipated future count: >1,000 species worldwide.