What are infectious ticks called? - briefly
«Vector» designates ticks that transmit pathogens; they are also described as disease‑carrying or pathogen‑bearing arthropods. This classification distinguishes them from non‑infectious tick species.
What are infectious ticks called? - in detail
In the scientific community, ticks that transmit pathogens are referred to as «vector ticks». These arthropods act as carriers for a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. The term emphasizes their role in moving infectious agents from reservoir hosts to new hosts, including humans and domestic animals.
Key groups of vector ticks include:
- Ixodes spp. – primary transmitters of the bacterium that causes Lyme disease and several viral encephalitides.
- Dermacentor spp. – vectors of the agents responsible for Rocky Mountain spotted fever and canine ehrlichiosis.
- Amblyomma spp. – carriers of the rickettsial organisms that cause spotted fever group rickettsioses and the protozoan that causes babesiosis.
- Rhipicephalus spp. – transmitters of the virus that causes Crimean‑Congo hemorrhagic fever and bacteria that cause Mediterranean spotted fever.
Each of these genera possesses specific ecological preferences, host ranges, and seasonal activity patterns that influence disease risk. Identification of the vector tick species is essential for accurate diagnosis, epidemiological surveillance, and implementation of targeted control measures.