Spatio-temporal variation in environmental features predicts the distribution and abundance of Ixodes scapularis.

Spatio-temporal variation in environmental features predicts the distribution and abundance of Ixodes scapularis. Int J Parasitol. 2020 Dec 23;: Authors: Tran T, Prusinski MA, White JL, Falco RC, Vinci V, Gall WK, Tober K, Oliver J, Sporn LA, Meehan L, Banker E, Backenson PB, Jensen ST, Brisson D Abstract Many species have experienced dramatic changes in both geographic range and population sizes in recent history. Increases in the geographic range or population size of disease vectors have public health relevance as these increases often precipitate the emergence of infectious diseases in human populations. Accurately identifying environmental factors affecting the biogeographic patterns of vector species is a long-standing analytical challenge, stemming from a paucity of data capturing periods of rapid changes in vector demographics. We systematically investigated the occurrence and abundance of nymphal Ixodes scapularis ticks at 532 sampling locations throughout New York State (NY), USA, between 2008 and 2018, a time frame that encompasses the emergence of diseases vectored by these ticks. Analyses of these field-collected data demonstrated a range expansion into northern and western NY during the last decade. Nymphal abundances increased in newly colonized areas, while remaining stable in areas with long-standing populations over the last decade. These trends in the geographic range and abundance of nymphs correspond to both the ...
Source: International Journal for Parasitology - Category: Parasitology Authors: Tags: Int J Parasitol Source Type: research