Aculus cornutus

Definition

A species of gall mite in the family Eriophyidae (order Trombidiformes), described by Nathan Banks in 1905. Like other eriophyids, these microscopic arachnids possess two pairs of legs in the adult stage and typically feed on plant tissues, often inducing abnormal growths (galls, erinea, or blisters) on host plants. Species of Aculus are commonly associated with woody angiosperms and conifers.

Etymology

Example

Aculus cornutus, originally described from material collected in the United States, is one of numerous eriophyid species whose host plant associations and gall-forming habits remain incompletely documented compared to economically important relatives such as the wheat curl mite (A. tosichella).

Related Terms

• Eriophyidae
• Trombidiformes
• gall mite
• eriophyid mite
• Aculus
• acarology

Usage Notes

The genus Aculus is morphologically distinguished from related eriophyid genera by details of the prodorsal shield and leg chaetotaxy; species-level identification typically requires slide-mounted specimens and examination of microsculpture. The specific epithet cornutus (Latin: 'horned') likely refers to a cuticular projection, though the original description should be consulted for precise diagnosis.