Trying to understand ticks - do they have any redeeming qualities?

[RustyPine17]

I've always been curious if ticks serve any purpose in the ecosystem or if they're just pests. Are they beneficial in any way, or should we continue to despise them with all our hearts?

 

[Muzlelodr]

I remember when there weren't any ticks in CT, at least I never saw any growing up. Now they are prevalent just about everywhere. The diseases they carry put them in the category of despise all of them. I hate having to spray up and check for the little buggers every time I wish to take a short walk in the woods. I see no redeeming quality in them. I wish it was like back in the 50's.