(Davenport, IA) -- The Asian long-horned tick, found in Iowa for the first time, poses a serious threat to the state’s cattle industry.
According to Iowa State University Extension, the tick carries Theileria, a parasite causing anemia, fever, and lethargy in cattle. The Iowa Farmers Union warns the tick, now concentrated in Northeast Iowa, could spread statewide within two to three years.
Farmers are advised to trim pastures to reduce tick populations. Iowa Farmers Union officials say losing a calf to this pest could cost farmers thousands.
The spread may force changes in land management, increasing costs. Experts are researching containment strategies to protect Iowa’s $4 billion cattle industry.
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