Models based on weather for the development phases of the sheep tick, Ixodes ricinus L.

The epidemiology of tick-transmitted disease cannot be understood until those factors considered important to the life-cycle of the tick are properly investigated. Existing experimental results on the development of different stages of the tick life-cycle have been examined with a view to obtaining biological development rates for the purpose of predicting development under field conditions where temperature fluctuates. Field studies carried out in Ireland have enabled the predicted development times to be compared with those observed for several stages of the tick life-cycle. It is hoped that the models presented will clarify the importance or otherwise of climate to tick development and explore the potential of formulating a successful prediction system for tick activity. Ultimately such a system should aid control of tick-transmitted diseases.