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Genetic variation in the body weight of ticks of the Rhipicephalus appendiculatus/zambeziensis complex

ABSTRACT. Sixteen strains of ticks of the Rhipicephalus appendiculatusl zambeziensis complex were created by cross‐breeding for one to three generations. The body‐weights of adult male ticks of these consanguineous lines were compared. A significant genetic variation was distinguished between the groups. Three classes whose mean weights varied around, respectively, 2, 3 and 4 mg/adult male tick, were found. This variation in weight may be explained by hybridization between R. appendiculatus Neumann and R. zambeziensis Walker, Norval & Corwin. Hybrid ticks were undersized whereas R. appendiculatus and R. zambeziensis gou'ps had significantly higher weights.