The hypostome of ticks is used during feeding, but it functions as an excellent holdfast organ. Tthe recurved teeth on the hypostome are embedded into the skin of the host and stimulate a tissue reaction around the site of penetration which further anchors it in place.
The hypostome of this Dermacentor is surrounded by the two palps and the chelicerae, which cut the host's skin. The distal end of the hypostome is covered with teeth.
