Introduction of the exotic ticks<i>Amblyomma humerale</i>koch and<i>Amblyomma geoemydae</i>(Cantor) (Acari: Ixodidae) into the United States on imported reptiles

Abstract

Abstract This is the first report of the reptilian ticks Amblyomma humerale Koch and A. geoemydae (Cantor) in the United States. Both were introduced into Florida on imported reptiles, A. humerale on a yellow-footed tortoise (Geochelone denticulata) from Guyana in South America and A. geoemydae on keeled box turtles (Pyxidea mouhotii) and black-breasted leaf turtles (Geoemyda spengleri) from Asia. Information on the host range, geographical distribution and life cycle of each tick is reviewed.