What types of ticks are primarily responsible for Lyme disease?

Deer ticks, also known as black-legged ticks, are primarily responsible for the transmission of Lyme disease. These ticks are small in size and are typically found in wooded or grassy areas where they wait for a host to pass by. When they attach to a host, such as humans or animals, they feed on blood and can transmit the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease.

Understanding the ecology of deer ticks is crucial for prevention and awareness, especially in regions where Lyme disease is prevalent. Their life cycle, which includes different stages from larva to adult, also affects their ability to spread the disease. This makes recognizing and addressing issues related to deer ticks important for public health initiatives aimed at controlling Lyme disease infections.