Podapolipidae
Guides
Chrysomelobia
Chrysomelobia is a genus of sexually transmitted parasitic mites in the family Podapolipidae that infest chrysomelid beetles. The genus was originally described from the Americas, Europe and Africa, and was later expanded to include Australian species following the synonymization of Parobia. These mites complete their entire life cycle on adult beetles and do not infest immature host stages.
Chrysomelobia labidomerae
Chrysomelobia labidomerae is a parasitic mite in the family Podapolipidae that infests chrysomelid beetles, particularly Labidomera clivicollis and Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Colorado potato beetle). Adult females lay eggs on the upper surfaces of host hind wings. The species exhibits arrhenotokous reproduction and overwinters on diapausing adult beetles. Despite high population levels, the mite has been observed to have minimal impact on host longevity or fecundity. The species has been studied for its potential as a biological control agent against the Colorado potato beetle.