Tocích

Tocích are ectoparasitic arachnids in the order Ixodida. They are external parasites of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles, feeding on blood through a specialized mouthpart. They are divided into two main families: hard ticks (Ixodidae) and soft ticks (Argasidae). Hard ticks have a scutum on the dorsal surface and typically take one blood meal per stage, whereas soft ticks feed more quickly in multiple meals and lack a scutum.

Life cycle: eggs are laid on vegetation and hatch into six-legged larvae (seed ticks). After a blood meal, larvae molt into eight-legged nymphs, which in turn molt into adults. Each stage requires a blood meal; the full life cycle may take one to two years depending on species. Hosts vary by species and stage.

Ecology and behavior: Ticks quest for hosts by crawling up grasses and vegetation. They attach using their mouthparts and secrete saliva with anticoagulants and immunosuppressants. They are vectors for several pathogens; diseases include Lyme borreliosis, tick-borne encephalitis, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and rickettsioses. Transmission often requires prolonged attachment to a host.

Distribution: Ticks are cosmopolitan, especially in temperate regions. They are abundant in forests, pastures, and brushland, with prevalence influenced by climate, humidity, and the availability of hosts.

Prevention and control: Protective clothing, repellents (such as DEET), and regular tick checks after outdoor activity reduce risk. Keeping grass short, treating pets, and environmental management help decrease exposure. Safe removal with fine-tipped forceps is recommended; avoid squeezing the tick, then wash the wound and disinfect. If bitten, monitor for symptoms and seek medical advice if fever, rash, or neurological signs develop.