Ixodid ticks of impala (Aepyceros melampus) in Swaziland: effect of age class, sex, body condition and management

Abstract

Five species of ixodid ticks, Amhlyomma hebraeum, Boophilus decoloratus, Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, R. evertsi evertsi and R. muehlensi, were commonly collected from impala (Aepyceros melampus) in the Mlawula-Mbuluzi-Simunye Nature Reserve and Protected Area complex in north-eastern Swaziland. The prevalence and apparent intensity of infestation of most tick species was greater on yearlings (13-24 months of age) and adults (> 24 months) than on lambs (≤12 months), and on adult males than on adult females. The packed cell volume and marrow dry weight were lower in impala infested with A. hebraeum, and in lambs and adults with moderate to heavy loads of R. muehlensiand/or R. appendiculatus. The age and sex patterns of tick infestation were probably determined by both body condition and host behaviour. The prevalence and apparent intensity of infestation of most tick species was greater in the unmanaged, densely populated area of the reserve than in the managed area from which impala had been culled. This trend was consistent in all months, and in all age classes.