LIE CYCLE AND SURVIVAL OF HYALOMMA DROMEDARII (ACARI:LXODIDAE) UNDER LABORATORY CONDITIONS

The life cycle of Hyalomma dromedarii Koch (Acari:Ixodidae) on rabbits at 25 and 32ºC was compared at 85% R.H. At these temperatures, it behaved as a two-host tick and completed its life cycle in 108-146 and 80-115 days, respectively. The previposition, incubation and moulting periods varied significantly and were influenced by temperature. The survival periods of different developmental stages of Hyalomma dromedarii at 25ºC, 32, 38, 43, and 48 ºC. These results suggest that the survival periods of eggs, engorged nymphs and engorged females were significantly decreased with an increase in temperature. They were more susceptible to high temperature than unfed adults. The role of unfed adult in the continuity of the life cycle of the tick throughout the year is discussed