Which genus of ticks is a vector of African Swine Fever?

Ornithodoros is the correct genus of ticks associated with the transmission of African Swine Fever (ASF). This virus is responsible for a highly contagious and lethal disease in domestic and wild pigs. Ornithodoros ticks, particularly Ornithodoros moubata, are known to act as soft tick vectors for the ASF virus. Their lifecycle and feeding habits enable them to effectively transmit the virus between hosts, contributing to the spread of the disease in herd populations.

Understanding the specific role of Ornithodoros in the context of African Swine Fever is vital for both epidemiological tracking and implementing measures to control outbreaks. Other genera such as Amblyomma, Rhipicephalus, and Otobius may harbor different diseases or have other vector roles, but they are not linked to the transmission of ASF. This distinction underscores the importance of identifying the correct tick species in efforts to manage and prevent the spread of this viral disease in swine populations.