[Localization of larvae of Neotrombicula (N) monticola (Trombiculidae) ticks on the vertebrates].

The specific features of distribution of Neotrombicula (N) monticola Schluger et Davidov, 1967 on small mammals were studied in the Tien Shan montains (Kirghiz ridge). N. (N ) monticola was found to occur in all the places under study. Nine species of mammals (pigmy white-toothed shrew, dwarf hamster, tamarisk gerbil, Turkestan rat, long-tailed mouse, Tien Shan, Kirghiz, and silver voles, and wood mouse) were established to be feeders of larvae of the ticks. N. (N) monticola larvae were detected in three topographic zones and seven portions of the body of vertebral hosts. The inner auricle is the major site of tick attachment to the host. Preference of N. (N) monticola in selecting the host is likely to be based on the morphophysiological features of partners.