Infestation of free-ranging reptiles by ticks of the genus Amblyomma (Acari: Ixodidae) in the state of Acre, western Brazilian Amazon

The ticks of the family Ixodidae are haematophagous mites that are known to parasitize an ample variety of vertebrates. The present study investigated the ticks associated with free-ranging reptiles in the state of Acre, western Brazilian Amazon. These reptiles were captured and identified between 2007 and 2013 during active searches, and through occasional encounters, in the municipalities of Rio Branco, Plácido de Castro, and Senador Guiomard. The tick specimens were preserved in 70% alcohol and identified using a stereomicroscope and taxonomic keys. The reptiles sampled included one lizard and 17 snakes, representing six families and 14 species. A total of 219 ticks were collected, including 74 Amblyomma larvae and 139 nymphs and six females of the species Amblyomma humerale and Amblyomma rotundatum. These findings amplify the known occurrence of ixodid ticks in Acre state, and represent the first records on of reptile as host of ticks in this state.