Acaroidea

Definition

A superfamily of mites in the order Sarcoptiformes, encompassing diverse lineages of astigmatid and related acariform mites characterized by reduced or absent respiratory tracheae and often associated with stored products, animal nests, or decomposing organic matter. The group includes families such as Acaridae (typical stored-product mites), Glycyphagidae, and Suidasiidae.

Etymology

New Latin, from Acari (mites and ticks) + -oidea (superfamily suffix)

Example

The flour mite Acarus siro, a major pest of stored grain, belongs to the superfamily Acaroidea within the suborder Acaridia.

Related Terms

• Sarcoptiformes
• Acariformes
• Acaridia
• Acaridae
• astigmatid mites
• stored-product mites

Usage Notes

Acaroidea is used in modern acarology primarily for astigmatid mites and close relatives, though historical classifications have varied. The superfamily is distinguished from other Sarcoptiformes (such as the Oribatida) by morphological and ecological traits. Some authorities have treated Acaroidea as paraphyletic or have revised its constituent families; current usage reflects molecular and morphological phylogenetics. The term is capitalized as a formal taxon name.