Experimental transmission of bovine anaplasmosis (caused by Anaplasma marginale) by means of Dermacentor variabilis and D. andersoni (Ixodidae) collected in western Canada.

ABSTRACT: Canadian cattle are free of bovine anaplasmosis, with the exception of 4 isolated incursions since 1968, which were eradicated. It is not known why the disease has not become established in regions of Canada adjacent to the United States where it is endemic. To assess the vector competence of wild-caught ticks in cattle-rearing regions, Dermacentor variabilis and D. andersoni were collected in western Canada and fed on calves experimentally infected with Anaplasma marginale (St. Maries strain). The 2 tick species were equally competent in transmitting A. marginale to splenectomized calves, all 15 tick-exposed calves becoming infected. The prepatent periods in 13 calves ranged from 18 to 26 d and did not vary in relation to the numbers of ticks fed or the duration of transmission feedings.

SUBMITTER: Lankester MW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1940274 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature