The blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis)—shown here in adult form (at right) and nymph (on blade of grass at left)—is the primary vector of the bacterial pathogen that causes Lyme disease. A study in Quebec has found that analysis of ticks submitted by members of the public to public health agencies can help identify areas of emerging risk for Lyme disease outbreak. (Photo credit: Jim Occi, BugPics, Bugwood.org)