Introduction and objective:
Ticks, especially Ixodes ricinus, are known vectors of multiple pathogens affecting human and animal health. Monitoring tick microbiomes, particularly in areas of military activity, is essential to understand the epidemiological threats they pose. This study investigates the microbiomes of I. ricinus ticks collected from military areas in Poland using next-generation sequencing (NGS).

Material and methods:
Ixodes ricinus ticks were collected in spring and autumn from military training grounds using the flagging method. After segregation (by stage and gender), DNA was isolated, libraries were prepared, and sequencing was performer. Data quality was assessed with fastQC. Pathogens were identified using Kraken2. The data was further analyzed using Bracken’s classification methodology

Results:
Metagenomic analysis of Ixodes ricinus ticks revealed a diverse bacterial community composed of symbionts, environmental taxa, and potential pathogens. Core endosymbionts were consistently detected across all samples, while medically relevant genera, such as Borrelia, Rickettsia, Ehrlichia and Bartonella, were also identified. The results highlight both the complexity of the tick microbiome and its potential importance for human and animal health.

Conclusions:
The study provides a preliminary overview of the microbiome of adult Ixodes ricinus ticks from Polish military training areas. Core endosymbionts were consistently detected, while variation in less abundant taxa suggests environmental influences. The presence of potential pathogens highlights the need for broader studies, and underlines the relevance of metagenomic approaches for public health and military medicine.