Bacterial microbiota associated with Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. ticks from France, Senegal and Arizona

Background. Ticks of the group Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. are major vectors of pathogens to dogs and to human and have a worldwide distribution. Previous phylogenetic reconstructions suggested the existence of two main lineages within this group, quoted “Tropical” and “Temperate”. Symbiotic interactions remain of main interest as several studies assessed their contributions to vectors development, survival, reproduction and the vector competence. However, the diversity of microbial communities within R. sanguineus s.l. across different populations remains poorly explored. Though, this knowledge is essential for future studies on hosts - microbiota - pathogens interactions. To get further insight into bacterial communities associated with R. sanguineus s.l. ticks, 40 specimens from France, Senegal and Arizona were analyzed by high throughput 16S amplicon sequencing. All the specimens were genetically characterized by sequencing of a mitochondrial 12S rDNA fragment in order to overcome any misinterpretation linked to the controversial taxonomic status of R. sanguineus.Results. All R. sanguineus s.l. from Senegal and France were affiliated to the “Tropical” and “Temperate” lineages respectively whereas both lineages were detected in Arizona. Regardless of the origin of ticks, each bacterial microbiota was dominated by three genera, Coxiella, Rickettsia and Bacillus. Rickettsia or Coxiella were the two main genera found in Females harbored a microbiota dominated by Rickettsia or Coxiella whereas males had higher proportion of Bacillus. Significant differences of relative abundances were evidenced between specimens from different geographical origins. Conclusions. OThe studyur results suggests a difference in the microbiota structure within according to R. sanguineus s.l. specimens from different genotypes, geographical origins and genders. This knowledge is essential These results constitute basics for future prospects on the symbiotic interactions, biology and vector competence within the R. sanguineus s.l. complex.