introduction to arachnids
structure and function
only two body divisions
legs
3 pairs as larvae
4 pairs nymphs, adults
no wings, antennae, compound eyes
small size
life cycles
egg --> larvae
larvae --> nymph
nymph --> adult
adult lays eggs
ticks
irritating
anaemia
important vectors for diseases
louping ill (virus)
tick bourne fever (rickettsial)
tick pyaemia (bacteria)
red water fever (protozoa)
mites
commonest mange mites of cats and dogs
inhabits external ear
otitis externa (dogs)
head shaking, scratching, foetid waxy masses, aural haematomata