(Studies on the effect of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) in the biological control of the tick Argas (Persicargas) persicus (Oken

Abstract

Argasidae are soft bodied and multi-host ticks with several nymphal stages and repeatedly feeding adults. They infest caves, nests, crevices or burrows or hide in soils or cracks of tree bark or wood nearby host-occupied sheltered sites. They play an important role in the transmission of certain pathogens that cause heavy economic losses to poultry industry. Massive infestations by Argas spp. on poultry can cause anemia, paralysis and death by exsanguinations. The soft tick, Argas (Persigargas) persicus, is the most important ectoparasite of chicken and other domestic fowl, as well as humans.