What is a key characteristic of the family Ixodidae?

The family Ixodidae is characterized as "hard ticks," which is a defining feature that distinguishes them from other types of ticks, such as those in the family Argasidae, known as soft ticks. The "hard" designation comes from the scutum, a hardened shield-like structure on their dorsal side, which provides protection and gives them a more rigid appearance compared to their soft-bodied counterparts. This physical structure is a significant characteristic that affects their feeding behavior and ecological role, making them efficient ectoparasites.

While soft-bodied ticks may have different life cycle aspects and feeding habits, and larvae in both families do possess legs, the defining trait of Ixodidae as hard ticks is crucial for understanding their biology and behavior in pest control contexts. Additionally, the feeding habits primarily involve blood from vertebrates rather than plants, reinforcing the uniqueness of their classification and ecological impact.