Conference Agenda

Bats are key ecological species and recognised reservoirs of diverse pathogens, yet their role in tick–host–pathogen systems in Australasia remains poorly understood. This study systematically synthesises current knowledge on bat-associated ticks and tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) and identifies critical gaps. Following PRISMA guidelines, literature was retrieved from major databases, including studies reporting ticks on bats or within their environments, and those investigating TBPs. Risk of bias was assessed using an AXIS-based framework. Of 512 studies screened, 35 met the inclusion criteria. Fourteen typical and nine incidental tick species were reported from bats, predominantly in Australia and New Guinea. Only one bacterial pathogen, Rickettsia japonica, was detected in the typical bat-associated tick Argas dewae. The non-typical tick Ixodes holocyclus was associated with paralysis in bats, while A. dewae may infest other hosts, including humans. Most studies relied on opportunistic sampling and morphological identification, with minimal use of molecular tools and limited investigation of pathogen diversity or bat health impacts. These findings highlight major gaps in surveillance, molecular characterisation, and pathogen detection, underscoring the need for integrated One Health approaches to better understand bat–tick–pathogen dynamics in Australasia.