Banca de DEFESA: RAFAEL MOREIRA DO NASCIMENTO

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS ON THE TEMPORAL DISTRIBUTION OF  Amblyomma  TICKS 

IN THE NEOTROPICAL REGION

STemporal dynamics; phenology; meta-analytical models; Ixodology; periodicity; climate.

Our main goal was to investigate the seasonal dynamics of ticks of the genus Amblyomma Koch, 1844 in the Neotropical region. In the first chapter, we present a narrative review of the main methods of review and synthesis processes in biological sciences, with a focus on ticks, highlighting the importance of meta-analysis as a method for the analysis and study of these parasites. In the second chapter, we provide a systematic review with a meta-analytical approach on the seasonality of Amblyomma ticks in the Neotropical region. Our systematic review included 3542 studies available in Scopus, Web of Science, and Catálogo de Teses e Dissertações da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior. The results of the second chapter revealed that the seasonality of the life stages of Amblyomma ticks shows distinct patterns among larvae, nymphs, and adults. Larvae and nymphs have a higher occurrence in the dry season, while adults predominate in the rainy season. However, there are variations in seasonal occurrence at the species level. As a result, we conclude that the seasonal dynamics of Amblyomma in the Neotropical region are influenced by environmental factors, biotic host responses, and specific environmental conditions. We also emphasize the importance of considering local specificities when addressing the temporal dynamics of these ticks. Understanding these seasonal patterns is crucial for anticipating periods of higher disease transmission risk, facilitating the implementation of more effective control and prevention measures.