[The effect of the causative agent of tick-borne relapsing fever on the respiration of the vector Ornithodoros papillipes (Birula, 1895) (Ixodoidea, Argasidae)]

Abstract

A relatively low level of normal respiratory metabolism in O. papillipes has been observed as compared to most other invertebrates and even ixodid ticks. It is connected with biological peculiarities and habitat of this species. Changes in respiratory metabolism under the influence of Borrelia have been revealed. These changes vary at different stages of tick life cycle. In long-fasting infected individuals, respiration is further inhibited, and in nourished ones, is increased as compared to noninfected ticks.