| Otobius | A genus of argasid ticks similar to Ornithodoros but characterised by a granulated integument, a hypostome that is vestigial in the adult but well developed in the spiny nymphs, and the absence of eyes and hood. Two species are recognised: Otobius lagophilus (the face tick of rabbits), and Otobius megnini, the spinose ear tick that causes otobiosis in horses, cattle, sheep, dogs, and some wild animals; it occurs in southwestern parts of the U.S., where it is an important pest, and is also distributed worldwide. (05 Mar 2000) |
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