Evaluation of the eradication program for Amblyomma variegatum (Acari: Ixodidae) on Puerto Rico

A cooperative effort between the United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services, the Agricultural Research Service, and the Department of Agriculture, Commonwealth Government of Puerto Rico has been successful in eradicating Amblyomma variegatum (Fabricius) from the islands of Puerto Rico and Vieques (an island municipality of Puerto Rico). Application of acaricides to livestock and dogs at 14-day intervals for an 18-month period eliminated foci of tick infestation on 188 farms in four different locations without additional aerial or ground treatment. Reasons for the success and some of the costs associated with the eradication program on Puerto Rico are presented.