Large-scale comparative analyses of tick genomes elucidate their genetic diversity and vector capacities. Six ixodid tick species

Among arthropod vectors, ticks transmit the most diverse human and animal pathogens, leading to an increasing number of new challenges worldwide. To comprehensively understand the common genetic basis for tick parasitization and specific features related to divergent environmental niches, diverse host range and distinct life cycle, we de novo sequenced and assembled the genomes of six representive ixodid tick species.