Local habitat and landscape affect Ixodes ricinus tick abundances in forests on poor, sandy soils

摘要: Abstract A large fraction of the forests in northern Belgium consists homogeneous pine stands on nutrient-poor and acid sandy soils. However, common with many other parts Europe, current forest management aims at increasing share deciduous mixed forests. This might create favourable habitats for tick Ixodes ricinus , which is Europe’s main vector Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, causative agent Lyme borreliosis humans. Considering threat to human health, it important know factors regulate abundance. The influence local habitat landscape variables abundance I. ticks were studied by collecting questing larvae, nymphs, adults 176 locations Campine region (northern Belgium). Both B. spirochetes occurred throughout study area, means that entire represents an area risk contracting borreliosis. At stand level, tree species shrub cover significantly affected all life stages . was higher oak compared stands, increased cover. Additionally, a positive effect found edge length but not These patterns may be explained preferences tick’s hosts. Our results indicate conversion indeed suitable ticks, highlights need intensive information campaigns effective control measures.