ALTSIM: A Simulation of Asian Longhorned Tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) Population Dynamic and Transmission of Theileria

Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

2026

Publication Title

Biology and Medicine through Mathematics Conference

Pages

1 pp.

Conference Name

Biology and Medicine through Mathematics Conference, May 13-14, 2026, Richmond, Virginia

Abstract

Theileria orientalis is a protozoan parasite that causes disease and anemia in cattle and has the potential to do major economic damage. Its primary vector, the Asian Longhorned Tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis), was first detected in the Eastern United States in 2017 and has since spread to at least 21 states, often found in high densities, notably parasitizing livestock. Using the framework of Mount et al. (1993), we developed a model that simulates the life cycle of H. longicornis and the transmission of T. orientalis to cattle and other hosts. The model incorporates a questing behavior across all tick life stages (larvae, nymph, adult) as well as environmental parameters that influence tick survivability and geographic expansion. Given the rapid expansion of this invasive tick species, this work provides an initial step toward developing strategies to mitigate H. longicornis populations, evaluate control methods, and adapt modeling approaches to other tick-borne diseases.

Rights

© 2026 The Authors.

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Original Publication Citation

Sanderson, S., & Gaff, H. (2026). ALTSIM: A simulation of asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) population dynaics and transmission of theileria [Meeting Abstract]. Biology and Medicine through Mathematics Conference, Richmond, Virginia. https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/bamm/2026/wed/4/

ORCID

0000-0002-4034-2684 (Gaff)

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