Ixodes ricinus nymph
Jun 20, 2018 • 3:15 AM UTC
Unknown Location
140x Magnification
Microorganisms
biotop_science
Biotop is an open collective of scientists engaging in the curiosity-driven, cross-disciplinary and collaborative translation of ideas. For more information, see http://biotop.co/en/
4posts
1comments
0locations
Nyph of Ixodes ricinus/castor bean tick Ixodes ricinus belongs to the family of hard ticks ( ixodidae ). They are distinguished from soft ticks by presence of a hard shield ( scutum ). It is segmented in to body parts: The gnathosoma which contains the head and mouthparts, and the posterior idiosoma which contains the legs, digestive tract.
On the outside of the mouthparts are the pedipalps that grope the consistence of the skin. On the inside are chelicerae that cut into the skin.
The legs consist of 6 segments and end with two claws and a pulvillus that helps to hold on smooth surfaces. The first pair of legs hold chemoreceptors called Haller’s organ that can detect odors as well as changes in temperature and air currents. This organ helps the tick to find their potential host that can be diverse mammals depending on the stage of the tick.
The life cycle stages are egg, larvae, nymph and adult. Nymphs and adults actively seek hosts and also feed on humans.
On the outside of the mouthparts are the pedipalps that grope the consistence of the skin. On the inside are chelicerae that cut into the skin.
The legs consist of 6 segments and end with two claws and a pulvillus that helps to hold on smooth surfaces. The first pair of legs hold chemoreceptors called Haller’s organ that can detect odors as well as changes in temperature and air currents. This organ helps the tick to find their potential host that can be diverse mammals depending on the stage of the tick.
The life cycle stages are egg, larvae, nymph and adult. Nymphs and adults actively seek hosts and also feed on humans.
Sign in to commentNobody has commented yet... Share your thoughts with the author and start the discussion!
More Posts from biotop_science
Pediculus humanus capitis
0 Applause
0 Comments
Oak wood
0 Applause 0 Comments
Sciaridae (dark-winged fungus gnat) – hairy legs and a beautiful pattern of wing veins
0 Applause 0 Comments