Pionidae
Thor, 1900
Genus Guides
1Pionidae is a of water mites (Hydracarina) in the order Trombidiformes, comprising approximately 15 and at least 90 described . The family has been subject to detailed systematic study using Hennigian phylogenetic methods based on larval and . Members exhibit diversification and modification as documented manifestations of their evolutionary history.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pionidae: //paɪˈoʊnɪdiː//
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Identification
can be distinguished from other water mite by morphological characters used in the phylogenetic analysis of Pionidae, including specific features of the palps and body . Larvae of 41 across 24 species groups have been described, with keys available for identification of larvae and adults of species occurring in Ontario.
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Habitat
Aquatic environments; members are water mites (Hydracarina) inhabiting freshwater systems.
Distribution
Recorded from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Vermont (USA), and other parts of the United States; detailed distributional data available for in Ontario, Canada. Broader geographic patterns have been analyzed as a biological manifestation of in the group.
Life Cycle
Complex with distinct larval and stages. Larval has been extensively studied, with original descriptions provided for larvae of 41 representing 24 species groups in eight . modification has been documented as a significant biological manifestation of in this .
More Details
Systematic revision
A major systematic study proposed a for 30 groups in 13 based on Hennigian morphological analysis, providing the basis for a revised classification of the .
New species described
Three have been described: Wettina ontario, Forelia pinguipalpis, and Tiphys cooki. Additionally, previously undescribed male of Pseudofeltria multipora and female adults of Forelia cayuga and Forelia onondaga were described.
Available keys
Keys and new are presented for pionid and groups, with keys to larvae and for species known to occur in Ontario.