Acariformes
Acariformes
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Subclass: Acari
- Superorder: Acariformes
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acariformes: /ˌækəˈrɪfɔːrmiːz/
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Images
Summary
Acariformes, or Actinotrichida, is a superorder of diverse mites with over 30,000 described species. They occupy various ecological niches and exhibit complex life cycles and diets, with some being important pests in agriculture and health.
Physical Characteristics
Body segments are added between molts and legs develop externally rather than from inside previous instars.
Identification Tips
Characterized by their diverse forms and often microscopic sizes; some groups display bright colors such as the velvet mites (Trombidiidae).
Habitat
Inhabit every possible biotic or abiotic habitat around the world, including soil, water, and as parasites on plants and animals.
Distribution
Over 32,000 described species found globally in approximately 351 families, with an estimated total of 440,000 to 929,000 species including those not yet described.
Diet
Includes microherbivores, fungivores, detritivores, predators, parasites, and some species associated with vertebrates such as dust mites.
Life Cycle
Development is anamorphic, meaning body segments are added at each molt; legs develop separately from body segments.
Reproduction
Primarily sexual reproduction, but parthenogenetic species have evolved several times within the superorder.
Ecosystem Role
Play significant roles in ecosystems as decomposers, herbivores, and parasites; some groups contribute to soil health and nutrient cycling.
Economic Impact
Some species are major agricultural pests (e.g., spider mites), while others may cause health concerns such as dust mites associated with allergies.
Health Concerns
Certain species, such as Sarcoptes scabiei, can cause skin conditions like scabies; house dust mites are linked to allergic reactions.
Collecting Methods
- Sweep netting
- Soil sampling
- Leaf litter extraction
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol
- Acetic acid
- Drying
Evolution
Evolved from a sexual ancestor with the development of parthenogenesis occurring multiple times within the lineage.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often grouped together without due consideration of their substantial diversity and phylogenetic relationships; some groups previously believed to be suborders are being re-evaluated.
Tags
- Acariformes
- mites
- arachnids
- biodiversity
- ecosystem