Bacterial Microbiota in Unfed Ticks (Dermacentor nuttalli) From Xinjiang Detected Through 16S rDNA Amplicon Sequencing and Culturomics

Background: Ticks are a major arthropod vector of zoonotic diseases affecting both humans and domestic animals worldwide. Thus, studying tick microbiota would aid in understanding the potential threats posed by ticks. Methods: Approximately 8,000 unfed ticks, identified as Dermacentor nuttalli , were collected from sylvosteppe western Tianshan mountains. To investigate their pathogens, we divided ticks into 36 groups 200–300 individuals each for examination with culturomics 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing. Results: A total 237 bacterial genera two methods. Culturomics 46 species 23 genera, predominantly Pseudomonas Pantoea Bacillus whereas sequencing 461 OTUs 233 (53.8%), Coxiella (17.2%), (6.4%). Rickettsia ten other discovered only sequencing, because optimal cultivating conditions not used isolation, Arthrobacter three through culturomics. Conclusions: Several bacteria, such line-related sepsis-causing Delftia acidovorans pneumonia agent Acinetobacter pittii can cause human diseases. methods crucial comprehensive D. .