摘要：The massive presence of the
pigeon (Columba livia f. domestica) in urban areas not only is cause of serious aesthetic damages as decline
of squares, of churches, of statues and buildings, but often creates many hygienic and medical problems. The
pigeon, in fact, can transmit a great number of pathogenic agents and also be infested by several ectoparasites.
Among these, Argas reflexus (Acari: Argasidae), the well known pigeon tick, is the most important
ectoparasite that can involve also human health. Buildings infested by A. reflexus and attacks by this tick
species to man are frequently reported, with an increasing interest for human health. In fact the pigeon tick
bites can induce anaphylactic reactions for the presence of allergens, and as vector, the tick can also transmit
some pathogens. This review deals with actual knowledge on the distribution, eco-biology, vector competence,
prevention and control of A. reflexus in Italy.
关键词：Argas reflexus, pigeon tick, distribution in Italy, biology, vector competence, control.
