Acaridia
Suborder Guides
4Acaridia is a zoosubsection within the suborder Astigmatina (order Sarcoptiformes), encompassing a diverse group of mites commonly referred to as acarid mites. The group includes at least 136 in 50 and 14 documented in China alone, with substantial diversity also recorded in other regions. These mites are predominantly , occurring in human-associated environments such as stored products, barns, and dwellings. Research has documented significant altitudinal variation in , with higher richness at lower elevations.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acaridia: //ˌækəˈrɪdiə//
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Identification
Acaridia mites are distinguished from other Astigmatina by specific morphological features of the idiosoma and gnathosoma, though detailed diagnostic characters require microscopic examination. Identification to , , or level typically relies on chaetotaxy (arrangement and structure of setae), leg segmentation, and patterns. The zoosubsection can be differentiated from related groups within Astigmatina by the absence of pteromorphs (lateral wing-like extensions) and specific modifications of the hysterosomal setae.
Habitat
Predominantly , occurring in human-modified environments including stored food products, barns, storehouses, haylofts, and dwellings. In natural settings, many inhabit soil, leaf litter, and nests of birds and mammals. Altitudinal distribution studies in Transcarpathia demonstrate decreasing with elevation, from 24 species in lowlands to 17 species in mountainous areas.
Distribution
Documented from China (including Hong Kong and Taiwan), Ukraine (Transcarpathia region), and likely in distribution given tendencies. The 136 recorded from China represent substantial regional diversity. In Transcarpathia, distribution follows altitudinal gradients with maximum diversity at lower elevations.
Human Relevance
Acaridia mites are significant as pests of stored products, causing economic damage to grains, seeds, and other foodstuffs. They are subjects of pest management research. Some may contribute to allergic responses in humans through production of allergens in dust and stored products.
Similar Taxa
- PsoroptidiaAnother major zoosubsection within Astigmatina; distinguished by different associations and morphological features, including more pronounced adaptations for parasitic lifestyles on vertebrates.
- Oribatida (Cryptostigmata)Often confused due to similar size and overlap in soil and litter; distinguished by presence of pteromorphs, different cheliceral structure, and non- tendencies in most .
More Details
Taxonomic scope
The zoosubsection Acaridia encompasses traditionally grouped as Acaroidea and Glycyphagoidea, including economically important groups such as the Acaridae (stored product mites) and ().
Research history
Chinese research on Acaridia has progressed through phases of and (pre-1980s), investigation and survey (1980s-1990s), and more recent focus on , , and .