NEON Biorepository Tick Collection (Pathogen Extracts)

This collection contains pathogen whole genome extracts collected from tick plots (NEON sample class: tck_pathogenresults_in.testingID, tck_pathogenresults_in.dnaExtract). Tick abundance and diversity are sampled using drag or flag sampling every three weeks at sites where more than five ticks have been detected in the last year and every six weeks elsewhere. Following collection, samples are sent to a professional taxonomist where adult and nymphal ticks are identified to species and lifestage and/or sex, and larvae are enumerated. A subset of nymphal ticks are then tested for the presence of bacterial and protozoan pathogens. The NEON Biorepository receives whole genomic DNA extracts from individual nymphs which include tick and any associated pathogen DNA. The extracts have already been analyzed for pathogen presence and are stored in -80 degree Celsius freezers. See related links below for protocols and NEON related data products.