By Blake Jackson
A small tick species is emerging as a serious threat to Missouri’s cattle industry, prompting researchers at the University of Missouri to examine how the American dog tick contributes to the spread of bovine anaplasmosis. This disease attacks red blood cells in cattle, causing fatigue, weight loss, reproductive problems, and in severe cases, death.
The financial impact is significant, as a 2025 Mizzou study found that nearly half of Missouri’s cattle have been exposed, while nationwide losses are estimated at nearly $300 million annually.
To better understand how the disease spreads, researchers collected more than 29,000 ticks from cattle pastures across five Missouri counties, including about 1,500 American dog ticks. After analyzing their DNA, scientists found that fewer than 1% of male ticks carried the bacterium responsible for bovine anaplasmosis, raising new questions about transmission patterns.
The findings suggest that the disease may spread through more direct contact among cattle, rather than solely through ticks waiting in vegetation. Understanding these dynamics can help guide improved disease monitoring and prevention strategies to protect livestock and reduce risks to both animals and humans.
Published in the Journal of Medical Entomology, the study also highlighted how environmental changes are contributing to growing tick populations. Warmer winters and increased humidity in Missouri are creating favorable conditions for ticks to survive and reproduce. Experts advise farmers and outdoor workers to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and ensuring livestock receive proper tick prevention, to reduce exposure and control the spread of disease.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-r-j-seymour
Categories: Missouri, Education, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle