Soft ticks
Scientific name: Argasidae
Soft ticks
Scientific name: Argasidae
Description
Members of the Argasidae family, defy the typical 'hard shell' stereotype often associated with ticks. Unlike their hard-shelled cousins, they have a leathery, flexible exoskeleton, allowing them to inhabit a variety of environments, from deserts to damp bird nests. While many assume all ticks carry Lyme disease, Argasidae primarily transmit relapsing fever, a bacterial infection, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between different tick species for effective medical treatment and preventive measures.