Rotational grazing: a sustainable alternative in the control of bovine ticks

Authors

Keywords:

control, ticks, livestock, grazing management, sustainable

Abstract

The tick Rhipicephalus microplus represents a highly relevant pest in Neotropical livestock systems due to its negative effects on cattle health and productivity. Its control constitutes a constant challenge for producers, primarily due to frequent resistance to conventional acaricides, the environmental damage associated with their use, and economic losses resulting from reduced herd profitability. This study documents the effectiveness of rotational grazing in Neotropical regions as a strategy to control R. microplus in cattle. Evidence indicates that pasture rest periods shorter than 30 days are insufficient to reduce parasitic loads, whereas rest periods exceeding 45 days, and even over 100 days, decrease infestations. Rotational pasture management with adequate recovery intervals constitutes a sustainable and effective alternative to control R. microplus, reduce conventional acaricide use, and enhance livestock system productivity.

http://dx.doi.org/10.21929/abavet2026.6       

 e2024-47.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFPkbBbDyNM

 

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Published

2026-03-21

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Section

Literature reviews

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