The prevalence and seasonal dynamics of hard ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and tick-borne haemoprotozoa in grazing livestock in Al Jabal Al Akhdar, Libya

Livestock production is of major economic importance in Libya but there is limited knowledge about the presence of ticks and tick-borne haemoprotozoa. The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence, species composition and seasonality of hard ticks and associated haemoprotozoan infections in grazing cattle, sheep and goats from March 2019 to August 2021 in Al Jabal Al Akhdar (north-east Libya). An overall number of 1800 bovines (600 each species) originating from ten different localities were examined for tick infestation and examination of blood smears microscopically. A tick infestation was identified in 22.5% of cattle, 32.8% of sheep, and 29.2% of goats. Three ixodid genera have been identified: Hyalomma , Rhipicephalus , and Boophilus . Hyalomma was the most common among all host species and locations. Infestation was significantly higher in females and younger animals and they showed a clear seasonal pattern, with the most infestations happening in the summer and the least in the spring and autumn. There were no infestations in the winter (P < 0.01). Ticks were most often found on the ears, neck, and tail. All host species were infected with Babesia bigemina and Theileria annulata , with Babesia being the most common pathogen. The research demonstrated a significant correlation between tick infestation, seasonality, and haemoprotozoan infections (P < 0.01). This study presents the first extensive epidemiological evidence of hard ticks and tick-borne haemoprotozoa in the grazing livestock of Al Jabal Al Akhdar, emphasising Hyalomma spp. as the primary vectors and reinforcing the underscoring the imperative for seasonally-based tick control strategies. The findings support the need for targeted tick control and surveillance initiatives to lower the number of diseases and enhance the productivity of livestock.