MORPHOLOGICAL IDENTIFICATION OF HARD TICKS INFESTING CATTLE IN MAIDUGURI BORNO STATE
Abstract
ABSTRACT
A survey study was conducted from August to September 2024 using standard parasitological procedures to determine the prevalence of tick infestation among cattle of different breeds in Maiduguri, Northeastern Nigeria. The tick species identified were Boophilus microplus , Amblyomma variegatum , Hyalomma spp. Rhipicephalus Lunulatus and Ornithodorus spp. Of the 200 cattle examined This study reveals high prevalence of tick infestation among indigenous cattle in Maiduguri. This might hamper cattle production and productivity in Nigeria. Thus, it is recommended that appropriate control strategies be instituted to control ticks in the study area. a infesting cattle pose a significant threat to livestock health and productivity in Maiduguri, Borno State. TheTicks accurate identification of these parasites is essential for implementing effective control measures. This study aims to morphologically identify the hard ticks infesting cattle in the region.A systematic survey will be conducted to collect tick specimens from infested cattle in various locations in Maiduguri. The collected ticks will be examined under a microscope to assess their morphological characteristics, such as body size, coloration, and shape of mouthparts. Additionally, molecular techniques may be employed to confirm the identification of tick species. The data collected from this study will provide valuable insights into the diversity and distribution of hard ticks infesting cattle in Maiduguri. This information will help livestock farmers and veterinary professionals in implementing targeted control strategies to mitigate the impact of tick infestations on cattle health and productivity.
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