Ixodes marxi

Banks, 1908

Squirrel Tick

Ixodes marxi, commonly known as the squirrel , is a hard tick in the Ixodidae. It is a documented of Powassan virus and has been observed to transmit this to humans. The species is distributed across multiple U.S. states and Canadian provinces. Nymphal stages have been recorded questing on vegetation.

Ixodes marxi by (c) Sequoia Janirella Wrens, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Sequoia Janirella Wrens. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ixodes marxi: /ɪkˈsoʊdiːz ˈmɑrksi/

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Habitat

Nymphs have been found on vegetation, suggesting questing in vegetated environments.

Distribution

Recorded from numerous states in the United States and numerous Canadian provinces. Specific jurisdictions not detailed in available sources.

Diet

Obligate blood-feeding . include eastern chipmunk (Tamias striatus), American red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus), Eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), flying squirrels (Glaucomys spp.), snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus), foxes (Vulpes spp.), and raccoons (Procyon lotor).

Host Associations

  • eastern chipmunk - Tamias striatus
  • American red squirrel - Tamiasciurus hudsonicus
  • Eastern gray squirrel - Sciurus carolinensis
  • flying squirrels - Glaucomys spp.
  • snowshoe hare - Lepus americanus
  • foxes - Vulpes spp.
  • raccoons - Procyon lotor

Life Cycle

Three- with larval, nymphal, and stages. Nymphs have been documented questing on vegetation. Specific duration of developmental stages not reported.

Behavior

Nymphs exhibit questing on vegetation, extending forelegs to detect and attach to passing .

Human Relevance

Known of Powassan virus; documented capacity to transmit this virus to human beings. Public health significance due to transmission potential.

More Details

Vector Status

Confirmed of Powassan virus, a -borne flavivirus that can cause severe neuroinvasive in humans.

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Sources and further reading