Trombidiformes

Trombidiformes

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Trombidiformes: //ˌtrɒm.bɪ.dɪˈfɔːr.miːz//

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

Images

5368119-PPT-broad mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus) by Merle Shepard, Gerald R.Carner, and P.A.C Ooi, Insects and their Natural Enemies Associated with Vegetables and Soybean in Southeast Asia, Bugwood.org. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.
Broadmite by David B. Langston. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.
Neomolgus littoralis 1005127 by icosahedron. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Anystis baccarum 28058225 by Siobhan Leachman. Used under a CC0 license.
Demodex canis by Stanley Hirst (1883—1930). Used under a Public domain license.
Neomolgus littoralis 6143729 by Jesse Rorabaugh. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Trombidiformes is a diverse order of mites comprising approximately 26,000 species classified into various families and genera, pivotal in various ecosystems as herbivores, predators, and parasites.

Physical Characteristics

Trombidiformes are characterized by their small size and varied morphology, often possessing distinctive colors and patterns, with many having unique adaptations for their environments.

Identification Tips

Identification can be based on morphological characteristics such as size, body shape, and the presence of specialized mouthparts or surfaces (e.g., setae). Microscopic examination may be required for accurate identification.

Habitat

Trombidiformes are found in diverse habitats worldwide, including soil, leaf litter, aquatic environments, and as ectoparasites on plants and animals.

Distribution

Trombidiformes are distributed globally, with about 26,000 species identified across various environments.

Diet

Trombidiformes exhibit a wide range of diets; some are herbivorous feeding on plant material, while others are predatory or parasitic, feeding on other arthropods or vertebrates.

Life Cycle

The life cycle typically includes egg, larva, nymph, and adult stages, with some species exhibiting complex life cycles involving different habitats or hosts.

Reproduction

Reproductive strategies vary widely among species, with many engaging in direct sperm transfer, while others may utilize spermatophores for reproduction.

Predators

Natural predators include numerous invertebrates and larger predatory mites.

Ecosystem Role

Trombidiformes play significant roles in food webs, decomposing organic matter and serving as prey for various organisms.

Economic Impact

Some species have notable economic impacts, particularly in agriculture as pests (e.g., spider mites). Other species may be beneficial in controlling pest populations.

Health Concerns

Certain species are medically significant; for example, Demodex mites are associated with skin conditions in mammals.

Collecting Methods

  • Using a suction device to collect samples from plants and soil
  • Hand collecting from leaf litter and under rocks

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Dried samples for morphological studies

Evolution

The Trombidiformes exhibit evolutionary diversity, having been classified into two suborders: Sphaerolichida and Prostigmata, with relationships elucidated through genomic analyses.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

There may be confusion between Trombidiformes and harmful ticks; however, not all members are parasitic or harmful to humans.

Tags

  • mites
  • Trombidiformes
  • arachnids
  • ecosystems
  • agriculture