Abstract

Overview

Artificial electromagnetic radiation is increasingly recognized as a new environmental factor influencing animal life. This study further explores the effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation on different species of ticks.

Findings

• The research involved four tick species: Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor reticulatus, Dermacentor marginatus, and Haemaphysalis inermis.
• In total, 1,200 ticks were examined in environments that either exposed them to or shielded them from electromagnetic radiation of 900 MHz over a period of 24 hours.
• Data was gathered on tick positioning to assess their response to the exposure.
• A significant preference for radiation-exposed areas was observed among both sexes of Ixodes ricinus and males of Dermacentor reticulatus and Dermacentor marginatus but not in females of these species nor in any Haemaphysalis inermis.

Conclusion

The study's findings suggest that ticks can perceive electromagnetic fields, with variations observed among different species and genders. This differential response could be key in understanding the mechanism behind their perception of electromagnetic radiation, pointing to potential risks and influences on their behavior in the natural environment.