Current status of Amblyomma ovale (Acari: Ixodidae) in Panama

Abstract

The genus Amblyomma is the most diverse and relevant among the Neotropical ticks. In Panama, this genus contains 19 species, including Amblyomma ovale. There is a lack of knowledge of the ecology of A. ovale in Panama, and thus the aim of this work is to report on its geographical distribution and its spectrum of vertebrate hosts. We reviewed data of ticks collected in different areas of Panama from 2007 to 2012 and found parasitism of A. ovale in 625 vertebrates, corresponding to 21 species (2 species of birds and 19 mammal species). A. ovale is present in different environments of Panama, from lowlands to places with 800m altitude, including rural towns, disturbed forests, and wilderness areas.