Tydeoidea

Tydeoidea can be distinguished from related superfamilies within Eupodina by the combination of: soft, often striated integument; reduced or vestigial tracheal system (stigmata absent or not clearly visible); palps with distinctive chaetotaxy; and generally small body size (often under 500 micrometers). They lack the prominent stigmata seen in other Prostigmata superfamilies such as Eupodoidea.

Soil, leaf litter, moss, lichens, and other terrestrial microhabitats. Some species are associated with plants, including above-ground vegetation. A few are known from caves or other subterranean environments.

Cosmopolitan distribution with records from all major biogeographic regions. Documented from North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and various oceanic islands.

Feeding habits are poorly documented for most tydeoid mites. Some tydeid species have been observed feeding on fungi, algae, or plant material. A few are suspected predators of nematodes or other small invertebrates, but specific dietary data remain limited.

Likely contribute to decomposition and nutrient cycling in soil and litter systems. Some species may function as fungal grazers or generalist microbivores in terrestrial ecosystems.

Generally of minimal direct economic importance. Some tydeid mites occur on crop plants but are rarely significant pests. Not known to transmit diseases to humans or livestock.

• EupodoideaAlso within infraorder Eupodina, but Eupodoidea typically possess well-developed stigmata and different leg chaetotaxy. Eupodoid mites often have more elongate body forms compared to the generally rounded-oval shape of Tydeoidea.
• AnystoideaAnother eupodine superfamily, distinguished by larger body size, more prominent eyes, and active predatory behavior. Anystoidea includes the large, fast-running anystid mites not found in Tydeoidea.

• BugGuide
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life