Metaproteomic profiling of the tick microbiome in Algeria: a pilot study of bacterial diversity and potential zoonotic relevance

Background Ticks are major ectoparasites and vectors of pathogens affecting humans, livestock, and wildlife. Their associated microbiota can vary regionally in ways that influence vector competence and pathogen transmission. However, metaproteomic data on tick-associated microbiomes remain extremely limited ; particularly for North Africa, a region that remains largely unexplored using metaproteomic approaches. Methods In this pilot study, we applied a metaproteomic approach based on high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry to characterize the bacterial microbiome of three tick species collected in Algeria: Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato, Hyalomma aegyptium , and H. dromedarii . Bacterial taxa were identified and their relative abundances compared across tick species and collection sites. Results A total of 40 bacterial genera belonging to 32 families and four phyla were identified, revealing a broader microbial diversity than previously reported using comparable methodologies. Microbiome composition differed significantly among tick species and sampling locations, highlighting the influence of ecological context on microbial acquisition. The most abundant genera included Bacillus , Clostridium , Escherichia , Flavobacterium , Paenibacillus , and Providencia . Coxiella spp. were the most frequently detected taxa, underscoring their potential zoonotic relevance. These findings suggest region-specific patterns of bacterial circulation in North Africa. Conclusions This pilot study provides the first metaproteomic insights into tick-associated bacterial communities in Algeria and establishes a preliminary reference framework for North Africa. By revealing interspecific and geographic variability in tick microbiomes, this work supports the prioritization of tick species and regions for targeted surveillance and contributes to the development of more tailored strategies for monitoring and controlling tick-borne diseases.