Co-metabolism of the Ixodicide Amitraz

Bacteria capable of degrading the ixodicide amitraz were isolated from cattle dipping tanks by the enrichment culture technique. The conditions for amitraz degradation were characterized and the bacteria identified as Pseudomonas and Achromobacter spp. The bacteria degraded amitraz without utilizing the ixodicide as a substrate or energy source. The degradation of amitraz by bacteria is an example of co-metabolism with yeast extract or an ingredient of yeast extract acting as the co-metabolite. Bacteria were unable to degrade amitraz at pH >11.5. Although bacteria can degrade amitraz, it is giving excellent tick control under practical field conditions.