What does a simple tick look like? - briefly
A basic tick appears as a brief vertical stroke attached to a longer diagonal line that rises to the right, forming a check‑mark shape. It is usually displayed in black on a white background for maximum contrast.
What does a simple tick look like? - in detail
A simple tick is a small arachnid, typically ranging from 2 mm to 5 mm in length when unfed, expanding to several centimeters after a blood meal. Its body consists of two main sections: the anterior capitulum, housing the piercing mouthparts, and the posterior idiosoma, which bears the shield and legs.
- Capitulum: Projects forward, equipped with chelicerae and a hypostome that anchors the parasite to the host’s skin. Color varies from pale brown to reddish‑black.
- Scutum: A hardened plate covering the dorsal surface of the idiosoma in males and partially in females. Usually dark brown, sometimes with lighter markings.
- Legs: Eight slender appendages, each bearing a pair of sensory organs called Haller’s ticks. Legs are typically reddish‑brown and articulate for grasping the host.
- Eyes: Simple dorsal ocelli, usually two, positioned near the scutum’s anterior edge.
- Silk glands: Located near the posterior, enabling the tick to produce a protective cocoon after engorgement.
The overall silhouette is oval, with a rounded posterior and a slightly pointed anterior. The dorsal surface appears smooth, while the ventral side shows the attachment pads used during feeding. When engorged, the abdomen becomes balloon‑like, turning a pale gray or pinkish hue, contrasting with the darker scutum.