Parateneriffia
Thor, 1911
Parateneriffia is a of prostigmatic mites in the Teneriffiidae, established by Thor in 1911. These mites belong to the superfamily Anystoidea, a group of predatory mites. The genus is rarely encountered, with only three observations recorded in iNaturalist as of the source date. Members of this genus are part of the diverse soil and litter mite fauna.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Parateneriffia: /ˌpæɹəˈtɛnərɪfiə/
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Identification
Parateneriffia can be distinguished from related within Teneriffiidae by characters of the leg chaetotaxy and idiosomal setation. Specific diagnostic features require microscopic examination. The genus is separated from Teneriffia, its type genus, by differences in the arrangement of setae and the structure of the palps.
Distribution
Distribution records are sparse due to limited sampling. The has been documented from localities in the Palearctic region, with historical records from Europe.
Ecological Role
As members of the predatory mite superfamily Anystoidea, in this likely function as microarthropod in soil and litter .
Similar Taxa
- TeneriffiaType of Teneriffiidae; differs from Parateneriffia in setal arrangement and palp structure
- AnystisMember of same superfamily Anystoidea but in Anystidae; larger and more conspicuous predatory mites with faster movement
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was erected by Thor in 1911 to accommodate previously placed in Teneriffia that showed distinct morphological differences. The Teneriffiidae remains poorly studied, with many species descriptions based on limited material.