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Species overviewNorth America

What is Amblyomma americanum?

Amblyomma americanum is the lone star tick, an active hard tick found mainly in the eastern, south-eastern and south-central United States, with a range that has changed over time.

Reviewed by VuxLore® Knowledge Team For North American residents and travellers

Short answer

Amblyomma americanum is the lone star tick, an active hard tick found mainly in the eastern, south-eastern and south-central United States, with a range that has changed over time.

At a glance

The adult female often has a single pale mark on the back, but males, nymphs and larvae look different. One mark is not enough for certain identification.

Key takeaways

• All active stages may bite people.

• It is not the primary vector of Lyme disease bacteria.

• Its bites are associated with several other health concerns in its range.

A common-name clue with limits

The female's pale spot inspired the name lone star tick. Adult males have a different pattern, while immature stages lack the same obvious single spot.

Use disease claims carefully

CDC associates this species with ehrlichiosis, tularemia, Heartland virus disease, Bourbon virus disease and alpha-gal syndrome. Risks vary geographically, and symptoms require qualified medical assessment.

Sources and further reading

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Where Ticks Live

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Tickborne Diseases of the United States