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Ticks are small, parasitic arachnids belonging to the order Ixodida. They primarily feed on the blood of mammals, birds, and reptiles, making them an essential part of the ecosystem as a natural vector for disease transmission. As members of the Spiders superorder, they possess four pairs of legs and lack antennae or wings. Ticks are unique within the Mites family due to their external mouthparts called chelicerae and hypostome, which enable them to pierce through the skin of their hosts and feed on blood. They have specialized structures known as Haller's organs located on their first pair of legs that help detect heat, carbon dioxide, and other chemicals released by potential hosts. Ticks play an essential role in the Mites hierarchy by occupying a distinct niche as external parasites. They represent a crucial link between various animal species within their ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling through blood meals and disease transmission. Their small size and cryptic behavior make them well-suited for this ecological function.