Circadian regulation of locomotion, respiration, and arousability in adult blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis).

ABSTRACT: The blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis, is an ectoparasitic arachnid and vector for infectious diseases, including Lyme borreliosis. Here, we investigate the diurnal activity and respiration of wild-caught and lab-reared adult ticks with long-term video recording, multi-animal tracking and high-resolution respirometry. We find male and female ticks are in a more active, more arousable state during circadian night. We find respiration is augmented by light, with dark onset triggering more frequent bouts of discontinuous gas exchange and a higher overall volume of CO₂ respired. Observed inactivity during the day meets the criteria of sleep: homeostatic in nature, rapidly reversible, a characteristic pose, and reduced arousal threshold. Our findings indicate that blacklegged ticks

SUBMITTER: Marshall JP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11208436 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature