How to combat a soil tick? - briefly
Eliminate the pest by removing and replacing infested soil, applying a registered acaricide according to label directions, and improving drainage to lower moisture levels. Introduce predatory nematodes or beneficial fungi for sustainable biological control.
How to combat a soil tick? - in detail
Soil ticks thrive in moist, organic-rich ground, especially where livestock or wildlife graze. Effective management requires a combination of monitoring, cultural practices, chemical treatments, and biological agents.
Identify infestations early by inspecting pasture, bedding, and feed areas. Look for small, reddish‑brown arachnids on the soil surface or attached to animals. Record population density and hotspots to target interventions.
Preventive measures reduce habitat suitability:
- Maintain low moisture levels by improving drainage and avoiding water pooling.
- Remove excess vegetation, especially tall grasses and weeds, to decrease shelter.
- Rotate grazing areas regularly to break the life cycle.
- Store feed in sealed containers to prevent tick colonization.
Chemical control options include acaricides approved for soil application. Choose products based on active ingredient, persistence, and target species. Apply according to label rates, ensuring uniform coverage of the soil surface. Rotate chemicals with different modes of action to delay resistance.
Biological control can supplement chemicals:
- Entomopathogenic fungi (e.g., Metarhizium anisopliae) infect and kill ticks when applied to soil.
- Nematodes such as Steinernema feltiae parasitize immature stages.
- Predatory mites may reduce tick numbers in confined environments.
Integrated management combines these tactics:
- Conduct regular scouting and map infestation zones.
- Implement drainage improvements and vegetation management in identified zones.
- Apply a targeted acaricide spray during peak activity periods.
- Follow with a fungal or nematode treatment to address residual populations.
- Re‑evaluate after two weeks; repeat steps if counts remain above threshold.
Safety considerations: wear protective gloves and masks when handling chemicals; observe re‑entry intervals for livestock; store all products away from children and non‑target species.
Consistent application of these practices disrupts the tick life cycle, lowers population density, and protects animals and humans from bites and disease transmission.