Estimation of the population density of biotopes by ticks using the population index. comparison of efficiency of different means of ticks collecting

Research and practice related to the study and evaluation of certain phenomena and processes requires the use of objective criteria. If these criteria are expressed in numerical terms and relate to objects, phenomena or processes characterized by certain units of measurement, then the latter must be provided in units of the International Metric System (SI). The results obtained should be reproducible and concise, that is, independent of subjective and other circumstances that may affect them. The results of research are of scientific value only if there are opportunities for their reproduction and comparison. This involves the use of standardized methods, and the resulting quantitative indicators should be reflected in the generally accepted system of measurement standards. The purpose of the paper is to investigate the possibility of estimating the number of mites in the natural environment by our proposed population index, which is expressed in the number of mites per unit area; compare the effectiveness of mites collecting our patented devices and how they are caught and traditional methods. Materials and methods. We used materials of our own field studies conducted in the biotopes of natural and urban landscapes of different climatic regions of Ternopil region during 2017–2019 with the use of traditional and improved means of collecting ticks. Statistical methods applied. Results. Statistical processing of the materials of acarological studies substantiates the possibility of estimating the number of ticks by the population index. Unlike traditional indicators, our index is based on the use of SI units. The effectiveness of the patented device and method of trapping mites is significantly higher than traditional methods. Conclusions. The population index more accurately characterizes the population of the territories by ticks, suitable for comparative analysis of the situation in individual territories in different years, is standardized.