Lithium chloride effectiveness on Dermacentor reticulatus is confirmed in vitro

Abstract Dermacentor reticulatus is considered a significant parasite because of the many diseases it spreads, which are dangerous to humans and animals. Control by repellents and pesticides, short duration of action or environmental damage and development of resistance make it impossible to achieve sustainable control. New active substances are constantly needed, and natural agents are given priority. Lithium salts have been shown to be effective against the related bee pest, Varroa destructor, a mite species, also by contact mode of action. In the present study, we investigated whether the contact efficacy of lithium chloride extends to other parasitic species such as D. reticulatus. Our results uncovered for the first time that beyond Varroa destructor the effectiveness of lithium chloride extends to the dog tick, offering 100% mortality at concentrations of 5.52 M, 2.76 M and 1.38 M. However, further comprehensive studies under in vivo conditions are warranted to ensure the relevance for practical application.