Establishment of Amblyomma maculatum (Gulf Coast Tick) in Arkansas, U.S.A.

Abstract

The Gulf Coast tick was found throughout Arkansas on wild and domesticated animals; consequently, this tick has established itself in Arkansas. Bayesian analyses confirmed the presence of this species. Because Amblyomma maculatum is the primary vector of Rickettsia parkeri and the secondary vector of Cowdria ruminantium, additional studies on the distribution of this tick should be investigated as well as its relation to human diseases.