Beetle-associates
Guides
Diplogyniidae
Diplogyniidae is a family of parasitic mites in the order Mesostigmata. Most species are associated with beetles, particularly passalid beetles (Coleoptera: Passalidae), histerid beetles (Histeridae), and scarab beetles (Scarabaeidae). Some species have been recorded from larger mammals, including rats. The family exhibits strong host specificity, with many species restricted to single host species, though exceptions such as Paradiplogynium nahmani occur across multiple hosts.
Podapolipidae
Podapolipidae is a family of highly specialized mites (order Trombidiformes) that are obligate ectoparasites of insects, primarily beetles. Members inhabit protected microhabitats beneath host elytra or within body cavities. The family exhibits remarkable host specificity, with most species restricted to single host species. Transmission occurs primarily through sexual contact between hosts. The family includes notable genera such as Eutarsopolipus (parasitic on carabid beetles), Chrysomelobia (on chrysomelid beetles), and Coccipolipus (on ladybirds). Some species can negatively impact host fecundity and longevity, while others manipulate host behavior to enhance transmission.