Ukrainian Journal of Veterinary Sciences

Biosphere Reserve "Askania-Nova" named after F.E. FalzFein is a unique steppe zone in Ukraine. There are at least 1155 species of arthropods, 7 species of amphibians and reptiles, 18 species of mammals, over 270 species of birds fly in different seasons, of which 107 species remain nesting. In addition, there are 478 higher plants growing there. Features of the flora and fauna have created good conditions for the life of parasites, including Ixodes ticks. Parasites of the Ixodidae family are dangerous ectoparasites. In case of massive attacks on animals they cause anemia, exhaustion, decrease in productivity, and also serve as vectors for the transfer of pathogens to many diseases. The aim of the study was to study Ixodes ticks of the «Askaniya-Nova» Biosphere Reserve. Using the "white flag" method, 64 parasitic ticks were caught and canned for identification. According to research, using dandruff and microscopy, it was found that all caught parasites belonged to the Ixodes genus. Further researches plan to identify their species, as well as to detect in their body pathogens of major diseases whose vectors they are.  

Ixodicides, Ixodidae, Ixodes, biosphere reserve "Askania-Nova" named after F.E. Falz-Fein