Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) has been recently used in detecting genetic variation in insect populations. Here, we describe the use of RAPD-PCR for the study of tick DNA polymorphism. A primer “P_z” with the sequence of CGGCCCGGTA was found to be able to amplify the genome of Boophilus microplus (Canestrini). The pattern of the bands were reproducibly obtained and consisted of 13 discrete DNA fragments with the size of 1290, 1070, 960, 870, 790, 720, 630, 580, 500, 450, 390, 300 and 220 base pairs. The RAPD-PCR, for its simplicity, rapidity, and ability to reveal variation at the DNA level, is an additional taxonomic tool for the study of ticks.