Ticks
Severe infestation (Boophilus microplus)
Over 75% of the world's cattle population is kept in tick-enzootic regions. Tick control in these areas is essential if cattle production is to be made economically viable at all.
For Argentina it was estimated that by elimatinating ticks, beef production from the existing number of 13 million cattle of the region could be increased by 300.000 tons annually.
In Mexico it was calculated that tick infestation is responsible for a shortfall in beef production of 30 kg/animal. Theileria infection (East Coast Fever), which is transmitted by ticks, causes an annual loss of 750.000 calves in East Africa.
In Australia the damage due to Boophilus microplus infestation amounted to US $ 60 million in the 1972/73 season alone.In tropical and temperate areas most important are ticks or the genera Boophilus, Ixodes, Rhipicephalus, Hyalomma, Amblyomma, Haemaphysalis and Dermacentor. In central Europe ticks are of less importance. Ixodes and Dermacentor infestation may occur from spring to fall in grazing cattle, sheep, dogs and cats.
Reasons for tick control
Boophilus microplus engorged female
Ticks
- cause production losses in cattle (meat and milk) due to blood losses and irritation
- transmit diseases (Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis, Theileriosis, Cowdriosis etc)
- cause hide damage
- cause skin lesion, which provide portals of entry for myiases, dermatophytes and bacteria
A wide-range of tick control measures is available, e.g. plunge dips (Asuntol 20% EC and 50% WP, Bayticol 6% EC, Bovitraz 12,5% EC) sprayraces, handspraying and Pour-on (Bayticol 1%) applications.
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Ixodes ricinus |
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Multi-host ticks (infested udder) |