Argasidae

/ɑrɡəˈseɪdi/ noun

Definition

A family of parasitic ticks with soft bodies, found worldwide, that typically feed on birds and can also bite humans.

Etymology

Derived from the genus 'Argas' (from Argus in Greek mythology) with the family-level taxonomic suffix '-idae' in Latinized scientific nomenclature, indicating a biological family classification.

Kelly Says

Argasidae represents one of nature's oldest parasitic lineages—these soft ticks have been around since the dinosaurs, and they've barely changed, because their strategy of hiding in crevices and going years without eating is so effective that evolution hasn't needed to improve it.

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