**3. Conclusion**

The ubiquity of polyphosphate and the variation in its chain length, location and metabolism indicate the relevant functions of this polymer, including those in animal systems. The present study showed that electron flux and the redox state may exert some influence on and be influenced by the activity of membrane exopolyphosphatase, and its describes a role for polyphosphate in the energy supply and ATP synthesis during embryogenesis of the hard tick *R. microplus*. In this sense, a more comprehensive understanding of polyphosphate biochemistry during tick embryo development may unravel additional targets that could be effective in the control of this ectoparasite and shed new light on polyphosphate metabolism.
