ACARICIDAL EFFECTS OF METHANOL FRACTION OF XYLOPIA AETHIOPICA ON DOG TICKS

Ticks are hematophagous ectoparasites of major veterinary and public health importance, particularly in dogs and cattle, where they cause direct damage and transmit pathogens such as Ehrlichia canis and Babesia spp. Conventional tick control relies heavily on synthetic acaricides, but issues of resistance, high costs, environmental persistence, and toxicity highlight the need for alternative, sustainable approaches. This study evaluated the acaricidal activity of the methanol fraction of Xylopia aethiopica (Negro pepper), a medicinal and culinary plant traditionally used across West Africa, the objectives were to identify phytochemicals present in the methanol fraction, determine their effects on egg hatchability and adult oviposition of Rhipicephalus sanguineus and R. microplus, and assess their impact on antioxidant enzymes, glutathione S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT), in ticks. Fresh plant material was collected and authenticated at the Forest Research Institute of Nigeria, Ibadan. Extraction was performed using methanol, and the crude extract was fractionated by Vacuum Liquid Chromatography. Engorged ticks and eggs were collected from dogs and cattle, then exposed to different concentrations of the methanol fraction. Egg hatchability and adult oviposition were assessed under controlled laboratory conditions. Phytochemical screening and quantitative analysis were conducted to determine the bioactive constituents. The results showed that the methanol fraction contained abundant terpenoids, flavonoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, and alkaloids. Quantitative analysis confirmed significant levels of these bioactive compounds. The extract reduced adult oviposition and significantly impaired egg hatchability in a concentration-dependent manner (p < 0.05). These effects suggest disruption of tick reproductive physiology and interference with antioxidant enzyme activity. In conclusion, X. aethiopica methanol fraction demonstrates promising acaricidal potential against cattle and dog ticks. Its availability, cultural acceptance, and phytochemical richness make it a strong candidate for development as a botanical acaricide. It is recommended that further studies explore its safety profile, mechanisms of action, and field efficacy to support its integration into sustainable tick management programs.