What evolutionary advantage does the small size of *I. pacificus* nymphs provide concerning Lyme disease transmission?
Answer
Their inconspicuousness aids the transmission cycle by allowing them to feed without being easily detected or removed.
The feeding strategy of *Ixodes pacificus* is highly adaptable, but the physical characteristics of its immature stages play a crucial role in disease ecology. Nymphs are primarily responsible for transmitting Lyme disease to humans. Their small physical size confers an evolutionary advantage: inconspicuousness. Being small and difficult to spot allows nymphs to remain attached to a host, including humans, for the necessary duration required to successfully complete pathogen transmission without being easily detected, groomed off, or otherwise interrupted during the feeding process.
Related Questions
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