Lucoppia burrowsii is a of oribatid mite in the Oppioidea. It was described by Mahunka in 1992 from specimens collected in South Africa. Oribatid mites in this are generally small, slow-moving decomposers found in soil and leaf litter. The species is known from limited material and has not been extensively studied.
Identification
Identification to level requires microscopic examination of morphological features, particularly the arrangement of setae on the notogaster and legs, and details of the genital and anal plates. Distinguished from by specific chaetotaxic patterns described in Mahunka (1992).
Habitat
Collected from soil or litter in montane or temperate environments; specific microhabitat details not recorded.
Distribution
Known only from South Africa (type locality). Precise locality details require consultation of original description.
Ecological Role
As an oribatid mite, likely contributes to decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling in soil . Specific ecological role of this unstudied.
Similar Taxa
- Lucoppia speciesOther in share general body form and require detailed chaetotaxic examination for separation.
- Other Oppioidea generaSuperfamily members share elongated body shape and long legs; identification requires knowledge of oribatid .
More Details
Taxonomic notes
The Lucoppia was established by Mahunka and contains several from southern Africa and other regions. Lucoppia burrowsii is one of the less commonly recorded species, known primarily from the type series.
Research status
No published studies on , physiology, or of this are known. All available information derives from the original taxonomic description.