Analysis of spatial distribution and host selection characteristics of ticks parasitizing rodents in China.

Abstract

Ticks are widely distributed on animals, especially rodents, and transmit various pathogens that threaten human health. This study systematically analyzed the geographical distribution, host selection patterns, and ecological diversity of rodent-associated ticks across China. We retrieved literature from major Chinese and English databases (up to February 2025) to construct a three-dimensional data matrix linking ticks, rodent hosts, and provincial-level administrative divisions (PLADs). We then analyzed geographical distribution and host selection using key ecological metrics, including species diversity, Shannon-Wiener breadth, and Levin's overlap. The study identified 54 tick species parasitizing 56 rodent species across 30 PLADs in China. Northwestern regions (e.g., Xinjiang: 19 species) had higher tick diversity than southeastern regions. Provinces with geographical adjacency and climatic similarity (e.g., Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning) showed highly similar tick species compositions. Niviventer confucianus served as a host for 19 tick species ("super host"). Haemaphysalis longicornis had the broadest geographical distribution (20 PLADs) and the largest spatial Shannon-Wiener breadth (2.99). Ixodes granulatus demonstrated the strongest host adaptability (20 host species) and largest host Shannon-Wiener breadth (3.00). This study highlights significant geographical and host heterogeneity of rodent-associated ticks in China. Ha. longicornis and I. granulatus demonstrate the highest spatial and host adaptability, underscoring their roles as primary zoonotic vectors. Xinjiang and N. confucianus were identified as the region and host with the highest tick species diversity, respectively, highlighting them as critical targets for public health surveillance.