Short Communication Seasonal distribution of Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) on dogs in an urban area of Morelos, Mexico

Between 1993 and 1995, we examined 1742 dogs at two veterinary clinics in Cuernavaca City in Mexico for the presence of Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks. The overall tick infestation prevalence was 20% and there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between different years. The prevalence was somewhat higher in spring, summer and autumn (20% or more) than in winter (13.7%). A positive correlation (p < 0.01) was found between prevalence of ticks and rainfall in spring, summer and autumn, whereas in winter there was only a correlation with temperature. Different stages of the tick were found and it was calculated that 2.5 generations could be completed each year. It is concluded that the enviromental conditions of Cuernavaca City favour development and maintenance of R. sanguineus ticks throughout the year and that its role as a vector of diseases poses a threat to dogs and may have potential zoonotic risks. © Rapid Science Ltd. 1998     

Short Communication Anti-tick effects of Stylosanthes humilis and Stylosanthes hamata on plots experimentally infested with Boophilus microplus larvae in Morelos, Mexico

The anti-tick effects of the tropical pasture legumes Stylosanthes humilis and Stylosanthes hamata were evaluated and compared with two common grasses, Cenchurus ciliaris and Andropogon gayanus, in the state of Morelos, Mexico, on plots experimentally infested with larvae of the tick Boophilus microplus. The effect was evaluated by recovery of larvae from the experimental plots by flagging during a 4 week period. The anti-tick effect due to Stylosanthes was significantly higher for S. humilis and S. hamata (p < 0.05) and slightly better for S. humilis (3% survival) than for S. hamata (12% survival). Further studies are required to determine the potential role of Stylosanthes plants for tick control in Mexico. © Rapid Science Ltd. 1998