Species profileEurope and Asia

What is Ixodes persulcatus?

Ixodes persulcatus is the taiga tick, a hard tick distributed from parts of eastern Europe across northern Asia and associated with several tick-borne pathogens.

Reviewed by VuxLore® Knowledge Team For Everyone

Short answer

Ixodes persulcatus is the taiga tick, a hard tick distributed from parts of eastern Europe across northern Asia and associated with several tick-borne pathogens.

At a glance

It overlaps with Ixodes ricinus in some regions, and reliable separation can require expert examination.

Key takeaways

• It is commonly called the taiga tick.

• Its range spans a vast east–west area.

• Local authorities define current disease risk.

A northern Eurasian species

The taiga tick occupies suitable forest and transitional habitats across its broad range. Larvae and nymphs feed on smaller hosts while adults commonly use larger mammals.