Anatomy explainerWorldwide

What is the hypostome of a tick?

The hypostome is a central mouthpart that enters the host's skin and bears backward-facing teeth that help anchor many ticks while they feed.

Reviewed by VuxLore® Knowledge Team For Everyone

Short answer

The hypostome is a central mouthpart that enters the host's skin and bears backward-facing teeth that help anchor many ticks while they feed.

At a glance

It works with the chelicerae and tick saliva during attachment; it is not a separate stinger.

Key takeaways

• The hypostome helps secure attachment.

• Its denticles face backwards.

• Prompt controlled removal is preferable to pulling at the body.

Designed for attachment

Chelicerae create the feeding lesion, and the hypostome enters it. Species differ in hypostome length, tooth arrangement and use of cement-like salivary secretions.

Why removal technique matters

The attachment apparatus sits close to the skin. A suitable tool should engage near that point while avoiding unnecessary compression of the tick's abdomen.