Ambient air temperature as a predictor of activity of adult Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae)

J Med Entomol. 1994 Jan;31(1):178-80. doi: 10.1093/jmedent/31.1.178.

Abstract

Based on winter flagging experiments on Long Island, NY, adult Ixodes scapularis Say have an apparent threshold of questing activity at 4 degrees C. This threshold should be incorporated into public education efforts because the public may be at risk of contracting Lyme disease any time during the winter when temperatures exceed 4 degrees C.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arachnid Vectors / physiology*
  • Female
  • Lyme Disease / transmission
  • Male
  • Motor Activity / physiology
  • Temperature*
  • Ticks / physiology*