Red and fallow deer determine the density of Ixodes ricinus nymphs containing Anaplasma phagocytophilum

Abstract Background The density of Ixodes ricinus nymphs infected with Anaplasma phagocytophilum is one the parameters that determines risk for humans and domesticated animals to contract anaplasmosis. For this, I. larvae need take a bloodmeal from free-ranging ungulates, which are competent hosts A. phagocytophilum. Methods Here, we compared contribution four ungulate species, red deer ( Cervus elaphus ), fallow Dama dama roe Capreolus capreolus wild boar Sus scrofa infections in nymphs. We used combination camera live trapping quantify relative availability vertebrate questing ticks 19 Dutch forest sites. Additionally, collected tested these presence Furthermore, explored two potential mechanisms could explain differences between species: (i) larval burden, based on data published studies, (ii) associations other, non-competent hosts. Results Principal component analysis indicated -infected (DIN) was higher sites high deer, lesser degree deer. Initial results suggest not result but rather other species or ecological factors. Conclusions These indicate contracting anaplasmosis Netherlands likely highest few areas where present. Future studies needed explore behind this association. Graphical abstract