Locomotor Activity of Ixodes ricinus Females in 900 MHz Electromagnetic Field

Abstract

Overview

Mobile telecommunications technologies are prevalent and influence the personal and social interactions of individuals worldwide. There is increasing demand for network availability and high-quality internet connections. Despite their ubiquity, only minimal knowledge exists regarding the impact of electromagnetic radiation on humans and wildlife.

Findings

This study focused on the effects of a 900 MHz electromagnetic field (EMF) on the locomotor behavior of female Ixodes ricinus ticks within a laboratory setting. The researchers utilized a Radiation-Shielded Tube (RST) test and a radiation-shielded circular open-field arena within an anechoic chamber for the experiments. A total of 480 female ticks were examined, showing no preference in the RST test, but significant behavioral changes were observed in the open field where ticks spent more time and traveled longer trajectories in EMF-exposed areas.

Conclusion

The continuous expansion of cell phone use introduces significant electromagnetic loads into the environment, affecting all living organisms, including epidemiologically significant parasites like ticks. While EMFs emit weak signals, ticks showed responses suggesting biological effects. Challenges exist in clearly demonstrating these effects, necessitating diverse methodologies like behavioral tests and possibly molecular-level studies. The slow increase in related publications highlights the need for continued research.