MORPHOLOGICAL IDENTIFICATION OF DIFFERENT TICKS IN DISTRICTS SWABI, MARDAN, AND CHARSADDA, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Ticks are ectoparasitic arthropods that play a crucial role in transmitting pathogens to humans and animals. This study focused on identifying the morphological diversity of ticks in Swabi, Mardan, and Charsadda districts, known for high tick prevalence in Pakistan. Field surveys were conducted over nine months, collecting tick specimen from forests, grasslands, and residential areas. Specimens were preserved and examined using a stereo-zoom microscope and taxonomic keys to classify them accurately. The study identified various tick species, including hard ticks (Ixodidae), in the study areas. The morphological characteristics of each species, such as body size, color patterns, capitulum shape, and scutum features, were documented. The results showed a diverse tick fauna in the study regions, with some species commonly found across all three districts and others having localized distribution patterns. This study provides valuable data on tick species in the studied districts, which can help in developing of targeted interventions and disease surveillance programs. Overall, the research offers important insights into the morphological identification of ticks in Swabi, Mardan, and Charsadda districts in Pakistan, contributing to tick taxonomy and epidemiology. These findings can serve as a basis for implementing preventive measures and protecting public health in the study regions and beyond.