Survey of Ornithodoros Soft Ticks (acari; Argasidae) in Garin Alkali Livestock Market, Yobe State, Northeast Nigeria.

Ticks are obligate blood-feeding parasite that has been identified as disease vectors with high potential of transmitting diseases to both animals and humans. This study was conducted to determine the occurrence and the distribution of Ornithodoros soft ticks in Garin Alkali livestock market, Yobe State, Northeast Nigeria. A total of 8310 ticks were collected across three different locations at the Garin Alkali livestock market and all samples were identified as Ornithodorus spp. The result revealed a remarkably high frequency and distribution of soft ticks (Ornithodoros spp.). The study's findings indicate that adults dominated the tick population, accounting for 62.3%, with females outnumbering males by a significant ratio of 3:1. Notably, animal resting shades were identified as the primary habitat for these soft ticks, occupying 59.7% of the total tick population. The presence of these ticks poses a significant risk of disease transmission to animals and humans, highlighting the need for targeted control measures. The study recommends implementing effective control measures, such as improved animal hygiene, regular tick removal, and strategic acaricide application, to reduce tick populations and prevent disease outbreaks. Furthermore, the study provides valuable baseline data for future research on tick-borne diseases in the region.