The current strategies and underlying mechanisms in the control of the vector tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis: Implications for future integrated management

Abstract

The hard tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis is a blood-sucking ectoparasite native to eastern Asia, and an invasive tick species in several countries including the United States. This tick is a vector of various pathogens that are of significant veterinary and public health concern. Over the past few years, researchers have evaluated various control strategies with regard to synthetic acaricides, plant essential oils, entomopathogenic fungi, and vaccines for H. longicornis control. This review presents and discusses the various control strategies and the possible mechanisms by which they act. We also discuss challenges and recommendations for future research, with a view of providing important clues for designing an effective and environmentally acceptable control strategy for H. longicornis, which is one of the possible means of reducing tick-borne diseases and exsanguination associated with their infestation.

Keywords: Acaricides; Entomopathogens; Essential oils; H. longicornis; Integrated pest management; Vaccines.