argasidae

noun

Meaning

A family of soft-bodied ticks that lack the hard dorsal shield found in other tick families and are primarily known for their rapid feeding habits.

Examples

  • The Argasidae family includes several species that are significant vectors for relapsing fever.
  • Unlike Ixodidae, members of the Argasidae often inhabit the nests or burrows of their hosts.

Synonyms: soft tick, parasite, arachnid, ectoparasite