Why do ticks swell up so much after feeding?
Quick Answer
Ticks can expand dramatically because their bodies are built to store a huge blood meal. Their flexible cuticle lets them increase in size many times over.
The Full Story
Ticks are arachnids adapted for prolonged feeding, and their bodies are unusually expandable. The cuticle around the abdomen can stretch to accommodate a blood meal far larger than their unfed size. This allows them to stay attached for hours or days while gradually feeding. Swelling is especially obvious in females, which need large meals for egg production. The design is efficient for parasitism but also makes ticks easier to spot after feeding.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Why a tiny tick can turn into a balloon after feeding"
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