A tick from a prehistoric Arizona coprolite

J Parasitol. 2008 Feb;94(1):296-8. doi: 10.1645/GE-1059.1.

Abstract

Ticks have never been reported in archaeological analyses. Here, we present the discovery of a tick from a coprolite excavated from Antelope Cave in extreme northwest Arizona. Dietary analysis indicates that the coprolite has a human origin. This archaeological occupation is associated with the Ancestral Pueblo culture (Anasazi). This discovery supports previous hypotheses that ticks were a potential source of disease and that ectoparasites were eaten by ancient people.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arachnid Vectors / classification
  • Arizona
  • Dermacentor / classification*
  • Diet / history*
  • Feces / parasitology*
  • Fossils*
  • History, Ancient
  • History, Medieval
  • Humans
  • Indians, North American / history
  • Tick Infestations / history*
  • Tick-Borne Diseases / history