Why is D. andersoni specifically the Rocky Mountain Wood Tick while D. variabilis is sometimes called the Wood Tick in the East?
Answer
The common name follows the historically or geographically most unique species in a region
The assignment of common names, even when related species share a descriptor like 'Wood Tick,' often reflects historical context or geographical uniqueness rather than strict taxonomic identity. *Dermacentor andersoni* is the specific species intrinsically linked to the Rocky Mountains region. Because *D. variabilis* is widespread east of the Rockies, it may adopt the general moniker 'Wood Tick' locally, but *D. andersoni* retains the specific geographic modifier because it is the iconic or historically recognized species associated with that specific, distinct geographical area.
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