Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) parasitizing free-ranging armadillos (Cingulata: Chlamyphoridae) and humans in Chaco province, Argentina

Abstract

Ticks are obligate hematophagous ectoparasites capable of transmitting pathogenic microorganisms to wildlife, domestic animals, and humans. In this study, we report for the first time the presence of adults of Amblyomma tonelliae parasitizing Tolypeutes matacus and Priodontes maximus, as well as the presence of adult and immature stages of Amblyomma pseudoconcolor infesting P. maximus. In addition, A. tonelliae specimens were collected on humans in the same area. These findings hold significance because armadillos include threatened species and can frequently come into close contact with both wild and domestic species, as well as humans.