What are ticks and fleas afraid of? - briefly
Ticks are deterred by cold temperatures, low humidity and desiccating conditions; fleas are repelled by high heat, dry environments and frequent grooming.
What are ticks and fleas afraid of? - in detail
Ticks and fleas exhibit avoidance behaviors that can be exploited for control.
Temperature extremes trigger retreat. Both groups seek microclimates within 20‑30 °C; temperatures below 10 °C or above 35 °C reduce activity and increase mortality.
Low relative humidity is detrimental. Ticks desiccate rapidly when humidity falls under 50 %; fleas experience reduced survival and impaired development under dry conditions.
Light exposure influences movement. Ticks display negative phototaxis, moving away from bright illumination toward shaded substrates. Fleas avoid intense light, preferring dim environments close to the host’s fur.
Chemical repellents act as deterrents. Essential oils such as citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender, when applied at concentrations of 0.5‑2 %, repel both ectoparasites. Synthetic agents, including DEET and permethrin, produce rapid knock‑down and sustained avoidance.
Host‑derived cues can be repulsive. Elevated carbon‑dioxide levels attract parasites, whereas the presence of certain host odors—particularly isovaleric acid and certain fatty acids—elicits avoidance.
Physical barriers impede progress. Fine mesh screens (≤150 µm) block tick attachment; smooth, non‑porous surfaces reduce flea traction and hinder climbing.
Predatory organisms generate fear responses. Nematodes (e.g., Steinernema spp.) and entomopathogenic fungi (e.g., Metarhizium anisopliae) infect and kill ticks and fleas, prompting avoidance of contaminated habitats.
Behavioral cues from conspecifics also play a role. Ticks release alarm pheromones when disturbed, causing nearby individuals to withdraw; fleas exhibit increased grooming and dispersal when exposed to conspecific alarm signals.
Effective management combines these factors: maintain low humidity, limit temperature fluctuations, employ proven repellents, install fine mesh barriers, and introduce biological control agents.