Zoological survey of the Union of South Africa : Tick survey. Part III. Distribution of Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, the brown tick

Abstract

1. The distribution of R. appendiculatus has been given in terms of political divisions as well as in terms of vegetational coverage. 2. R. appendiculatus is seen to be present in areas with a rainfall above 15 in. per annum, provided the bush or scrub coverage is adequate: in areas above 15 in. without bush the tick is absent. 3. The brown tick present in the "brokenveld" of Fauresmith is either not a true R. appendiculatus, or it is a strain of R. appendiculatus which has become drought resistant. 4. It is concluded that where farming conditions are favourable, associated with the restriction of movement of wild life, R. appendiculatus can be eradicated.