Genome-wide insights into genetic diversity of endemic and non-endemic Ixodes ricinus populations

This study utilized whole-genome sequencing to analyze *Ixodes ricinus* populations from Türkiye (a non-TBE-endemic region) against TBE-endemic German populations and Algerian *I. inopinatus* for comparative context. Genetic structure analyses revealed clear geographic differentiation, with Turkish populations showing greater admixture and heterogeneity compared to the more homogeneous German group. Genomic diversity scans identified 37 highly differentiated regions, enriched for genes associated with detoxification, lipid metabolism, chemosensory processes, and ion transport. Gene Ontology analysis further highlighted carotene and terpene metabolism pathways in these regions. These findings suggest that region-specific genomic differentiation influences ecological interactions and vector-associated traits, potentially explaining variations in disease prevalence.