Effect of Aspergillus terreus (Deutero mycotina) on Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum (Acari: Ixodidae): An Approach to Biological Control

Abstract

Six hundred H. a. anatolicum engorged females were collected from local and cross-bred cattle from Khartoum, North Kordofan and Gezira States. They were identified and examined for fungal infections. Fungal species and prevalence were determined. Aspergillus terreus was isolated for the first time in the Sudan from eggs of H. a. anatolicum. Sabouraud medium was selected to grow A. terreus which gave the best growth and the best spore production. The spore suspension and culture filtrate of A. terreus were prepared and tested against H. a. anatolicum at different developmental stages. Both immature developmental stages and unfed adults were mostly affected by A. terreus spore suspension or culture filtrate. The latter was more effective than the former. Moreover, a mixture of both A. terreus products and chemical acaricides was more effective against H. a. anatolicum than either product alone. Thus, biological products of A. terreus alone or with chemical acaricides could be used to control H. a. anatolicum and to reduce concomitant simultaneously hazards.