Potential models of geographic and climatic distribution of the Amblyomma cajennense complex (Acari: Ixodidae), potential vector of Rickettsia rickettsii in Colombia

Introduction: Species of A. cajennense complex, as potential vectors involved in the transmission of Rickettsia rickettsii in Central and South America, have a wide geographical distribution in the Neotropics. In Colombia the knowledge about the species of this complex, their distribution and many aspects of their ecology is limited. Objective: To explore the ecology of the A. cajennense complex in Colombia based on the study of their selection of habitat and the generation of potential models of geographic and climatic distribution. Materials and methods: We used unique records of these ticks in the study of patterns of selection of the climatic habitat using ENFA, and we built distribution models using the MaxEnt and GARP algorithms. Results: The record of distributions showed that the A. cajennense complex is present in the 5 natural regions of Colombia with 64.71% of the records found in the departments of Antioquia, Cundinamarca and Huila. Habitat selection analysis shows that these ticks strongly select geographical areas (ENFA: 96.03%) according with isotermality condition and precipitation of the driest quarter of the year. The potential distribution models indicate habitat suitability in 31-51% of the area of the country depending on the employed algorithm. Conclusions: A. cajennense complex in Colombia exhibits a distribution that is highly influenced by climatic habitat selection behavior; this characteristic favored the creation of distribution models. Field studies will allow validation of the potential distribution models and further genetic studies are required in the country for the identification of the species inside the complex and to study potential areas of species hybridization.