Parasitiformes

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Parasitiformes: //pæɹəˌsaɪtɪˈfɔːrmiːz//

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Summary

Parasitiformes is a superorder of arachnids that includes a diverse range of mites, including ticks and predatory species. They serve important ecological roles and have significant economic implications due to their interactions with humans and livestock.

Physical Characteristics

Members of Parasitiformes vary in size and form, but many have specialized feeding appendages. Ixodida (ticks) are usually noted for their flat, oval bodies and mouthparts extending downward, while Mesostigmata are diverse in shape and size, often resembling typical mites.

Identification Tips

Ticks can be identified by their distinct flattened shape, mouthparts visible from a dorsal view, and presence of a scutum. Mesostigmata can often be recognized by their elongated bodies and distinct dorsal scales or patterns.

Habitat

Parasitiformes inhabit a variety of ecosystems, including soil-litter, rotting wood, dung, carrion, nests, and house dust. Some species are found in aquatic environments, while ticks are commonly associated with vegetation.

Distribution

Parasitiformes have a broad distribution globally, with many species found in various habitats across all continents, except extreme environments like the Antarctic.

Diet

Many species within Parasitiformes are parasitic, feeding on hosts such as mammals, birds, and reptiles (ticks). Others are predatory, consuming small invertebrates, and some feed on fungi or spores.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Parasitiformes typically includes egg, larva, nymph, and adult stages. In ticks, for example, larvae attach to hosts for their first meal, then develop through nymph stages before becoming adults.

Reproduction

Reproduction usually involves external fertilization, with female ticks laying hundreds to thousands of eggs. Some predatory mites also exhibit complex mating behaviors.

Predators

Predators of Parasitiformes include larger arthropods, such as spiders and certain beetles, as well as some birds and mammals that feed on ticks or mites.

Ecosystem Role

Parasitiformes play critical roles in ecosystems as both parasites and predators, contributing to the control of other species populations. Some mites are also important in nutrient cycling by breaking down organic matter.

Economic Impact

Certain species in this superorder have significant economic impacts, particularly ticks that transmit diseases to livestock and humans, and predatory mites that are used in biological pest control in agriculture.

Health Concerns

Ticks are known to transmit various diseases to humans and animals, making them a significant public health concern. Other parasitic species may also pose risks through allergic reactions or other effects.

Collecting Methods

• Sweep netting
• Leaf litter sampling
• Hand collecting from hosts

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Dry storage
• Insect pins in envelopes

Evolution

The evolutionary history of Parasitiformes is marked by their divergence in the Cretaceous period, with significant diversification suspected to have occurred earlier. Their genetic divergence suggests they may have a more recent common origin compared to Acariform mites.

Similar Taxa

• Acariformes
• Scorpiones
• Opiliones

Misconceptions

Many people erroneously believe all mites are harmful or parasitic; however, many species are beneficial and help control pest populations in the environment.

Tags

• arachnids
• mites
• ticks
• ecology
• pest control