A taxonomic-morphological study of Boophilus Curtice, 1891 and Rhipicephalus Koch, 1844 [Acari : Metastigmata : Ixodidae]

Abstract

This investigation includes detailed morphological Scanning Electron Microscopic studies of both the immature and mature stages of RhipiaephaZus pravus, R, ocuZatus, R. appendiauZatus, BoophiZus deaoZoratus and B, miaropZus. A discussion on the methods and techniques employed for the preparation of tick specimens for Scanning Electron Microscopic studies is given. A list of terms used in tick taxonomy is given and new terms, adopted for purposes of uniformity in acarine nomenclature, are incorporated. Descriptions are given of the specimens as seen under the S.E.M. and these are compared with existing descriptions based on light microscopic and stereomicroscopic studies.