Chaetodactylus claudus

Klimov & OConnor, 2008

Chaetodactylus claudus is a of mite in the Chaetodactylidae, described in 2008. It belongs to a known for parasitic associations with mason bees (Osmia spp.), where mites attack pollen provisions and kill . The species has been recorded in North America.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chaetodactylus claudus: /ˌkiːtoʊˈdæktɪləs ˈklaʊdəs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Distribution

North America. Present in the United States, where it has been documented in association with non-native and native Osmia .

Diet

Pollen provisions stored in nests. The mites consume pollen cakes prepared by female bees as food for their larvae.

Host Associations

Life Cycle

Mites cling to bees (phoretic ) as they exit natal galleries, hitchhiking to new nesting sites where they drop off and infest pollen provisions. They reproduce within nests, consuming pollen stores and killing bee .

Behavior

Phoretic mites ride on bodies to disperse between nests. Once at a new nesting site, they leave the bee and enter galleries to exploit pollen provisions.

Ecological Role

of solitary bees. Acts as a mortality agent for by destroying pollen provisions and killing . May contribute to population declines of native and managed .

Human Relevance

Considered a pest of managed colonies used for orchard pollination. Thermal treatments have been explored as a control method. Beekeepers and researchers are advised to monitor for mite when managing Osmia .

Similar Taxa

  • Chaetodactylus nipponicusAnother in the same that is an important mortality agent of the hornfaced Osmia cornifrons. C. claudus may have similar ecological impacts but specific differentiating features are not documented in available sources.

More Details

Taxonomic context

The Chaetodactylus contains multiple associated with Osmia bees. Chaetodactylus claudus was described relatively recently (2008) and specific details about its may still be under investigation.

Tags

Sources and further reading