argasids

Argasids are a family of hard ticks belonging to the suborder Ixodida. They are distinct from the Ixodidae (hard ticks) and Nuttalliellidae families by several characteristics, including their leathery bodies and the absence of a scutum, a dorsal shield found in many other tick species. Argasid ticks are also known as soft ticks. Their mouthparts are located ventrally, meaning they are on the underside of the head, and are not visible from above when the tick is viewed from the dorsal side. This is a key distinguishing feature compared to hard ticks, whose mouthparts are prominent and anterior.

These ticks are often found in sheltered, humid environments such as bird nests, animal burrows, caves, and cracks in walls. They are primarily nocturnal feeders, meaning they are most active at night. Unlike hard ticks that typically remain attached to their host for extended periods, soft ticks feed quickly, often for a few minutes to an hour, before detaching and returning to their hiding places. This rapid feeding behavior helps them avoid detection by their hosts.

Argasids feed on the blood of a variety of hosts, including birds, mammals, and reptiles. Some species are of significant veterinary and medical importance, as they can act as vectors for various pathogens. These pathogens can cause diseases in both animals and humans, such as Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis, although the specific diseases transmitted vary by species and geographic location. Control of argasid ticks often involves targeting their resting places and controlling host populations.