Trombidiformes

Trombidiformes

Trombidium holosericeum

Eutarsopolipus paryavae

Trombidiformes is an order of mites in the subclass Acari. This diverse group includes a wide range of species, many of which are of significant ecological and economic importance. Members of this order can be found in various habitats worldwide, from soil and leaf litter to freshwater and marine environments.

Description

Trombidiformes exhibit a wide variety of forms and sizes, ranging from microscopic to several millimeters in length. They are characterized by their complex life cycles, which often include several larval and nymphal stages. Many species are free-living, while others are parasitic, feeding on plants, animals, or fungi.

Ecology

Trombidiformes play crucial roles in ecosystems as predators, decomposers, and parasites. Some species are important biological control agents, preying on pest insects and other arthropods. Others, however, can be pests themselves, such as the spider mites that damage crops and ornamental plants.

Parasitism

Many Trombidiformes are parasitic at some stage of their life cycle. For example, the larvae of the family Trombiculidae, commonly known as chiggers, are notorious for causing itching and dermatitis in humans and animals. Other parasitic members include the Demodex mites, which inhabit the skin of mammals, including humans.

Taxonomy

The order Trombidiformes is divided into several suborders and superfamilies, reflecting the diversity of forms and lifestyles within the group. Some of the major suborders include Prostigmata and Sphaerolichida.

Related pages

• Acari
• Arachnida
• Parasitism
• Biological pest control

References

• Walter, D. E., & Proctor, H. C. (1999). Mites: Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour. CABI Publishing.
• Krantz, G. W., & Walter, D. E. (2009). A Manual of Acarology. Texas Tech University Press.

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  Trombidium holosericeum

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  Eutarsopolipus paryavae