Agro-Ecological Distribution of Cattle Ticks in Selected Districts of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia

Cattle production is a key component of Ethiopia’s economy and a vital livelihood for farmers and pastoralists. However, ticks pose significant health and economic challenges, particularly in Tigray. This cross-sectional study, conducted from October 2016 to September 2017, examined the agro-ecological distribution of cattle ticks in selected districts of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia. A total of 905 adult hard ticks were collected from 384 cattle, identifying nine tick species from four genera: Hyalomma (55.69%), Rhipicephalus (37.57%), Amblyomma (4.53%), and Boophilus (2.21%). Tick species distribution varied significantly (p<0.05) across study areas. Hyalomma marginatum was the most prevalent species in Workamba (65.22%) and Mekelle (62.47%), while Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi (51.67%) was dominant in Hashenge. Tick prevalence also differed significantly (p<0.05) between sexes, with higher infestation in males (61.55%) than females (38.45%). While no significant difference (p>0.05) was found among cattle age groups, adults had the highest tick burden (76.9%). Predilection sites varied significantly (p<0.05), with the rectum (59.0%) being the most infested. Mapping distribution showed the highest tick numbers in Workamba (n=391), followed by Mekelle (n=274), and the lowest in Hashenge (n=240). Hyalomma (n=256) was most abundant in Workamba, whereas Rhipicephalus (n=139) was dominant in Hashenge. Tick prevalence was highest in Workamba and Mekelle, which had higher temperatures and lower rainfall. To mitigate tick infestations and tick-borne diseases, continuous surveillance at national, regional, and district levels is essential for effective control and prevention strategies.