IXODID TICKS OF IMPALA (AEPYCEROS-MELAMPUS) IN SWAZILAND - EFFECT OF AGE CLASS, SEX, BODY CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT

Five species of ixodid ticks, Amblyomma hebraeum, Boophilus decoloratu s, Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, R. evertsi evertsi and R. muehlensi, were commonly collected from impala (Aepyceros melampus) in the Mlawul a-Mbuluzi-Simunye Nature Reserve and Protected Area complex in north-e astern Swaziland. The prevalence and apparent intensity of infestation of most tick species was greater on yearlings (13-24 months of age) a nd adults (> 24 months) than on lambs (less than or equal to 12 months ), and on adult males than on adult females. The packed cell volume an d marrow dry weight were lower in impala infested with A. hebraeum, an d in lambs and adults with moderate to heavy loads of R. muehlensi and /or R. appendiculatus. The age and sex patterns of tick infestation we re probably determined by both body condition and host behaviour. The prevalence and apparent intensity of infestation of most tick species was greater in the unmanaged, densely populated area of the reserve th an in the managed area from which impala had been culled. This trend w as consistent in all months, and in all age classes.