Endoparasitic-mites
Guides
Phytoptidae
Phytoptidae is a family of eriophyoid mites in the order Trombidiformes, comprising approximately 75 described species across 17 genera. These microscopic, four-legged mites are obligate phytophages that exhibit diverse life strategies including vagrant surface feeding, gall induction, and endoparasitism beneath plant epidermis. The family is primarily associated with angiosperms, though some lineages inhabit conifers. Notable genera include Phytoptus, Retracrus, Austracus, Novophytoptus, and Oziella. Many species are economically significant as agricultural pests of palms, hazelnuts, and other crops.