What does a crab‑like tick with claws look like? - briefly
It is a small, flattened arachnid with a broad, oval body and enlarged front legs that end in pincer‑like claws, resembling a tiny crab.
What does a crab‑like tick with claws look like? - in detail
The organism resembles a typical ixodid tick but its dorsal outline is widened, giving a silhouette comparable to a small crab. The body measures 4–7 mm in length when unfed and expands to 10–12 mm after engorgement. The anterior region is rounded, while the posterior margin flares outward, creating a semi‑circular rim.
Key morphological traits:
- Scutum: hard, dark brown to black plate covering most of the dorsal surface; edges are slightly raised, forming a rim that accentuates the crab‑like shape.
- Legs: eight legs, each ending in a pair of robust, pincer‑like claws (chelae). The claws are curved, tapering to a sharp tip, and are visibly larger on the fore‑legs, enabling the tick to grasp hosts with a crab‑like grip.
- Palps and mouthparts: short, thick palps positioned ventrally; the hypostome bears a series of backward‑pointing teeth for secure attachment.
- Eyes: two simple eyes located near the anterior margin of the scutum; small and dark, barely protruding.
- Coloration: overall matte black or dark brown; ventral side may show a lighter, creamy hue. The claws are slightly lighter, often a reddish‑brown shade.
- Surface texture: smooth, glossy cuticle on the scutum; legs and claws exhibit fine setae that give a subtle fuzzy appearance.
When the tick is attached to a host, the claws clamp around the skin, while the hypostome penetrates and anchors the mouthparts. The combination of a broad, flattened dorsal shield and pronounced chelae creates a distinctive crab‑like profile that distinguishes this species from other ixodid ticks.