Mutation scanning-based identification of larval and nymphal ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) from Richardson's ground squirrels (Spermophilus richardsonii).

The objective of this study was to identify the tick species parasitizing Richardson's ground squirrels (Spermophilus richardsonii) in southern Saskatchewan (Canada). Morphological examination of the adult ticks revealed the presence of three tick species, Ixodes sculptus, Ixodes kingi and Dermacentor andersoni. However, given the difficulties in identifying some of the larval and nymphal (immature) ticks using this approach, PCR-based single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) and DNA sequence analyses of a portion of the mitochondrial (mt) 16S rRNA gene were used to determine their species identity. The results showed that each tick species had a unique set of SSCP profiles and DNA sequences using this mt marker. The species identity of larval and nymphal ticks was determined based on a comparison of these profiles and sequences with those of morphologically-identified adults. The detection of three tick species, which are known vectors of disease-causing agents, on the same host has important implications for understanding the ecology of vector-borne diseases, and provides an opportunity to examine fundamental questions regarding the structure and composition of the bacterial communities (i.e., both endosymbiotic and pathogenic species) in these ticks. This study shows the utility and benefits of using the present molecular method for the accurate identification of ticks at any stage of development.