Dermanyssoidea

Definition

A superfamily of mesostigmatid mites (order Mesostigmata) encompassing most vertebrate-parasitic mites, including blood-feeding and tissue-dwelling species of medical and veterinary importance. Members exhibit diverse host associations ranging from temporary ectoparasitism to nidicolous specialization, with many lineages secondarily evolving free-living or predatory habits.

Etymology

From Dermanyssus (type genus, from Greek derma 'skin' + nyssō 'to prick') + -oidea (superfamily suffix).

Example

The poultry red mite Dermanyssus gallinae and the rat mite Ornithonyssus bacoti, both significant vectors of zoonotic pathogens, are representative dermanyssoid parasites.

Related Terms

• Mesostigmata
• Dermanyssus
• Ornithonyssus
• Parasitiformes
• Acari
• Nidicolous
• Ectoparasite

Usage Notes

The superfamily historically grouped families by vertebrate-parasitic habit rather than strict phylogeny; molecular systematics has redefined some boundaries, though 'Dermanyssoidea' remains in common use for the core parasitic radiation. Contrast with free-living mesostigmatan superfamilies such as Parasitoidea and Eviphidoidea.