Which tick is known to transmit Lyme disease, but is rarely found in Tennessee?

The tick known to transmit Lyme disease and is rarely found in Tennessee is Ixodes scapularis, commonly referred to as the black-legged tick or deer tick. This tick is the primary vector for the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease. While Lyme disease is more prevalent in certain regions of the United States, including the Northeast and the Upper Midwest, Ixodes scapularis is not commonly encountered in Tennessee, making it a significant point of understanding for pest control professionals.

Other ticks mentioned, such as the American dog tick, the brown dog tick, and Dermacentor variabilis, are more common in Tennessee and primarily vector other diseases, such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and ehrlichiosis, rather than Lyme disease. Recognizing the specific regions and the ticks associated with various diseases is essential for effective pest management and public health safety.