Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus and Rhipicephalus sanguineus: a review on the prospects, distribution and resistance

Abstract

Since the beginning of time animal production is directly influenced by parasites. Among these are the ectoparasites bovine, the tick Ripicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. The control of these mites is done through conventional management with synthetic products, which becomes problematic in the point of view of the resistance of these ticks, directly reflecting in an excessive number of applications allied to dosages above the recommended ones, in smaller intervals than necessary. In this way the number of scientific investigations aiming at the development of less aggressive and more sustainable products is growing. Not less worrisome, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, besides being one of the main parasitic problems faced by kennel owners, has also been found in the home and peri-domiciliary environment of the man who lives with his main urban host, the domestic dog. The R. sanguineus tick species has been found with high prevalence in urban dogs, being described in the literature as one of the main parasite species of these domestic animals. Species evidently involved in the transmission of pathogenic agents, such as Babesia canis, Eherlichia canis and Anaplasma platys. This mite is becoming a real urban pest worthy of attention of the public health organs, and cause for great concern among veterinary professionals.