How can one differentiate between a tick and an insect?

Ticks belong to the class Arachnida, which is distinct from insects that belong to the class Insecta. One of the fundamental differences is in their leg count; ticks have eight legs in both their nymph and adult stages, while insects only have six. This eight-legged characteristic is a key aspect of how ticks are classified as arachnids.

In contrast, while it is true that many insects have the capability to fly, not all can, and flight is not a definitive distinguishing feature as it applies only to certain insect species. Furthermore, the notion that insects do not transmit diseases is inaccurate; many insects, such as mosquitoes and fleas, are well-known vectors for various diseases. Thus, the distinctive feature of ticks having eight legs is the most accurate and defining characteristic that differentiates them from insects. Understanding these taxonomic differences is essential for proper identification and management of these pests in pest control practices.