An expanded description of the threatened tree kangaroo tick Ixodes (Sternalixodes) dendrolagi Wilson, 1967 (Acari: Ixodidae) from Papua New Guinea

Mackenzie L Kwak

doi:10.24349/acarologia/20184249

Abstract

Little is known about the enigmatic tree kangaroo tick (Ixodes dendrolagi Wilson, 1967). Since its description, no new taxonomic data describing it have been published. An updated description of the morphologically variable female I. dendrolagi is presented based on two specimens taken from the type host at the type locality. Scanning electron micrographs are presented with comments on morphological variation in I. dendrolagi. The conservation of the species is also discussed.

Highlights

Of the almost 900 tick species known, only a limited number are threatened with extinction (Mihalca et al, 2011)
The recent collection of I. dendrolagi from its type host in its type locality has enabled the documentation of more morphological variation in this species than was previously recognised
In the original description of the species, small coxal spurs were recorded on the forth coxae (Wilson, 1967)

Summary

Introduction

Of the almost 900 tick species known, only a limited number are threatened with extinction (Mihalca et al, 2011). Hoogstraal (1982) noted the minimal research the Papuan tick fauna had attracted, and to date little is known about the tick species which are found there. Accurate identification is required to better understand the ecology of the Papuan ticks and to enhance conservation efforts for the limited number of species threatened with extinction. The recent collection of I. dendrolagi from its type host in its type locality has enabled the documentation of more morphological variation in this species than was previously recognised. This has facilitated the production of a more accurate description of the species

Methods

Results

Conclusion