Integrated management of Rhipicephalus microplus: acaricide resistance and biological control strategies in the Ecuadorian Amazon
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55204/trc.v5i2.e418Keywords:
Rhipicephalus microplus, acaricide resistance, biological control, plant extracts, integrated managementAbstract
The cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus represents a critical constraint for livestock production in tropical regions due to its impact on animal health and its role as a vector of hemoparasitic diseases. Traditional control has relied on the use of chemical acaricides; however, their intensive application has promoted the development of resistance, reducing their effectiveness. This review analyzes resistance to ivermectin and cypermethrin in populations of R. microplus from the Ecuadorian Amazon, where variations in susceptibility are evident, with moderate resistance levels and emerging tolerance. In response to this issue, sustainable alternatives such as plant extracts and biological control are evaluated. Species such as Piper aduncum, Mansoa alliacea, and Lonchocarpus nicou show concentration-dependent acaricidal activity, while Beauveria bassiana demonstrates high efficacy, achieving mortality rates above 90% under laboratory conditions. The integration of chemical, botanical, and biological strategies is proposed as a viable alternative to reduce selection pressure and improve the sustainability of tick control in tropical livestock systems.
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