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The present study is based on oribatid mite materials collected from Arsi Mountains National Park, Ethiopia, in 2021. A list of 43 species, belonging to 29 genera and 22 families, is presented; of these, three species (Scutovertex evansi, Scheloribates rugiceps and Pilogalumna arabica) are reported for the first time in the Ethiopian fauna. One new species—Antarctozetes behanpelletierae Ermilov sp. nov. (Punctoribatidae) – is described. An identification key to the known species of Antarctozetes from the Afrotropical region is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new larval species Eutrombidium keralaensissp. nov. (Acari: Microtrombidiidae: Eutrombidiinae) parasitizing Teleogryllus sp. (Orthoptera: Gryllidae: Gryllinae) is described and illustrated for the first time from Kerala, India. This species belongs to the species group with large and fully separate lobed lateral coxalae I, coxalae II and III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The family Epactozetidae (Oribatida) is recorded in Guatemala for the first time. A new epactozetid species of the genus Truncozetes – T. izabalensissp. nov. – is described, based on adults collected from the Guatemalan rainforest litter. It is characterized by: number of leg claws (leg I monodactylous, legs II–IV tridactylous); medium-sized lamellar seta inserted in anterolateral part of the lamella; straight translamella; the location of notogastral setae lm and lp (shifted in dorsolateral part from dorsocentral part of notogaster); and the absence of epimeral longitudinal stria. Main family and generic traits are provided. The identification key, distribution and habitat to the known representatives of Epactozetidae are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oribatid mite genera Arcoppia (Oppiidae) and Cavernocepheus (Otocepheidae) are recorded for the first time in Guatemala. Two new species—Arcoppia tumulosasp. nov. and Cavernocepheus longicristatussp. nov.—are described. Identification keys to the known species of Arcoppia from the Neotropical region and to the known species of Cavernocepheus are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of Oppiidae are described, based on adults collected from Ethiopia. Arcoppia afroalpina Ermilov sp. nov. differs from its closely related species, A. arcualis arcualis by the morphology of the rostrum, the length and morphology of branches on the bothridial head, and the body size. Helioppia ethiopiaensis Ermilov sp. nov. differs from its closely related species, H. sol by the morphology of the rostrum, the morphology of the bothridial head, the development of the notogastral seta c, the location of the notogastral seta la, the presence of the costula, and longer notogastral setae. The generic diagnosis of Helioppia is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Location Taxon Methods Results and Main Conclusion Understanding the worldwide distribution of species has fascinated scientists at least since Alfred Russel Wallace. Global patterns of belowground biodiversity may fundamentally differ from those of aboveground organisms. Here, we examine the global pattern and potential mechanisms driving the endemism and overlap of a soil microarthropod taxon.Global.Oribatida, Acari.We investigated the global distribution of oribatid mites in five biogeographic regions including North America, South America, Eurasia, Africa and Oceania using a world list on the distribution of ~11,400 described species (including subspecies) at species, genera and family levels.We found that most “endemic” (i.e., only occurring in one of the regions) species (4297) and also genera (143) occurred in Eurasia indicating that this region was the centre of radiation of oribatid mites. Within Eurasia, oribatid mite diversity was highest in Southeast Asia (1975 species) likely reflecting the long tropical history of this region (at least 200 million years), and also high fluctuations in water levels and island formation on the Sunda Shield. On a family level, oribatid mite diversity did not differ between biogeographic regions indicating that oribatid mites are much older than the tropics and older than the existence of Pangaea supporting the view of their origin in the early Palaeozoic. Finally, among the 55 species that occurred in all biogeographic regions nearly 50% reproduce by thelytoky and colonize high latitude ecosystems, indicating that compared to sexual species a disproportionally high number of parthenogenetic species is distributed worldwide suggesting that they possess a general‐purpose genotype. The other ~50% sexuals predominantly occur in tropical/subtropical regions across biogeographic regions supporting the view that resource shortage in tropical regions favours sex. Our findings highlight the importance of biogeographical studies of soil animals to better understand their diversity, distribution and life history strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is based on oribatid mite materials collected from the Gambela region, Ethiopia. A list of 41 species, belonging to 30 genera and 20 families, is presented. One new species Scheloribates (Scheloribates) aboboensis Ermilov sp. nov. (Scheloribatidae) is described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study provides the morphotaxonomic-based identification of the world species of the subgenus Oligonychus (Oligonychus) Berlese. In this lieu, five diagnostic keys were erected to identify Oligonychus (O.) species belonging to five subgroups; smithi, peruvianus, subnudus, aceris, and coffeae. In addition, taxonomic notes on some Oligonychus (O.) species, either briefly described or closely related, were provided, and intraspecific variations were highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is based on oribatid mite material collected from three localities in Madagascar. A list of 26 species, belonging to 18 genera and 14 families, is presented; of these, six species are reported for the first time from Madagascar. Two new species – Zetorchestes saltipessp. nov. (Zetorchestidae) and Scheloribates (Scheloribates) erectisensillussp. nov. (Scheloribatidae) – are described from forest leaf litter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of the genus Eotetranychus are described from the Huaping National Nature Reserve, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Eotetranychus delphinussp. nov. was collected from Schizophragma integrifolium Oliv. (Hydrangeaceae); E. enpeiisp. nov. was collected from Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers (Lauraceae). We also provide COI sequence data of these two new species: E. delphinussp. nov. (GenBank accession numbers PP582994) and E. enpeiisp. nov. (GenBank accession numbers PP582995). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Mullederia (Acariformes: Stigmaeidae) are free-living predatory mites with six species known in the world. In this paper, we describe and illustrate a new species, Mullederia hainanensissp. nov., from deciduous broad-leaved plants and evergreen broad-leaved plants in Hainan Province, China. Moreover, an identification key is provided for the known species of this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of oribatid mites of the genus Eremobelba (Oribatida, Eremobelbidae) collected from Gutianshan National Nature Reserve, Zhejiang, China were described: Eremobelba yinaesp. nov. and Eremobelba rotundasp. nov.. A key to the known species of Eremobelba occur in China was provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of the subgenus Pergalumna (Pergalumna)—P. (P.) araguaensissp. nov. and P. (P.) bispinatasp. nov.—are described, based on adults collected from leaf litter in the Aragua State, Northern Venezuela. Pergalumna (P.) araguaensis differs from the related species P. (P.) espejillosensis by the morphology of the bothridial seta and rostrum, the location of the notogastral porose area Aa and solenidion on the leg tibia IV, the absence of the dorsosejugal porose area. Pergalumna (P.) bispinata differs from the related species P. (P.) montana by the body size, the morphology of head of the bothridial seta, the number of the notogastral porose areas, the presence of the median pore, the absence of the postanal porose area and striate ornamentation on the pteromorph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Claws, as nature's multifaceted instruments, play fundamental roles across the animal kingdom, aiding in prey capture and enabling movement across diverse terrains. Claw features often reflect the ecologies of the respective taxa and thus can provide important insights into the different lifestyles. This study explores the claw morphology of monodactylous oribatid mites through geometric morphometrics, analyzing 559 specimens from 49 species across various ecosystems. The research identifies distinct claw characteristics associated with specific habitats, revealing a significant correlation between claw morphology and the mites' environmental adaptations. Littoral mites exhibit notably larger claws compared to terrestrial counterparts, with aquatic and semiaquatic species presenting intermediate traits. The analysis shows an inverse relationship between claw curvature and sharpness, differing from patterns observed in larger animals. A trend of increasing claw bluntness with body size in terrestrial mites echoes biomechanical constraints seen in larger species. The study also observes consistent claw shapes within oribatid superfamilies, suggesting a potential, albeit muted, phylogenetic influence alongside environmental factors. These findings reveal how ecological, evolutionary, and functional aspects influence claw morphology in oribatid mites, enhancing our knowledge of arthropod biology and potentially inspiring biomimetic advances in material science and engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Eupalopsellus Sellnick (Raphignathoidea: Eupalopsellidae) is reported for the first time from Saudi Arabia. Two new species, Eupalopsellus taifensissp. n. and Exothorhis saudiensissp. n., are described and illustrated based on females collected from different regions of Saudi Arabia. Four Exothorhis species, E. bixae Rimando and Corpuz-Raros, E. eorhis Rimando and Corpuz-Raros, E. nadiaensis Chatterjee and Gupta, and E. justicia Roy, Gupta and Saha, are suggested as species inquirendae. Additionally, a key to world species of Exothorhis Summers is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of the subgenus Scheloribates (Perscheloribates) (Oribatida, Scheloribatidae) are described, based on adults collected from dry litter in Shorea dipterocarp forest in Southern Vietnam. Scheloribates (P.) posteriorugosussp. nov. is characterized by the presence of heavily rugose sculpturing (several longitudinal ridges with deep furrows between them) in posterior part of the notogaster; S. (P.) dentiunguissp. nov. is characterized by the presence of strong teeth in mediobasal part of the leg claws. An identification key to the known species of S. (Perscheloribates) from the Oriental region is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The female of a new fossil genus and species, Rhombometridium pankowskiorumgen. and sp. nov. (Acari: Trochometridiidae), is described from Cretaceous Kachin amber. The new genus is characterized by the presence of well-developed sporothecae anteriad legs III, each sporotheca containing several ovoid fungal spores. This is the oldest (ca. 100 Mya), evidence of symbiosis between mites and fungi and the first fossil record of the mite family Trochometridiidae. The new genus shares synapomorphies with the family Trochometridiidae (presence of sporothecae between bases of legs III and IV) and Caraboacaridae (rhombic body shape, absence of setae v2, absence of palpal solenidion, palps fused with distinctly widened gnathosomal capsule), and potentially represents a transitional form or a missing link between these two closely related families. We also compare the sporothecae of R. pankowskiorum with those of other heterostigmatic mites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five species of Unionicola Haldeman, 1842 (Acari: Hydrachnidia: Unionicolidae) were collected between 2018 and 2019. Notably, Unionicola (Armatax) armata Walter, 1929, previously unrecorded in China, is now documented for the first time in the country. Additionally, Unionicola newsumi Wiles, 1999 has been reclassified and assigned to the new subgenus Vespicola within the genus Unionicola Haldeman, 1842. These findings also led to the establishment of three new subgenera: Micronodusgen. nov., Vespicolagen. nov., and Lingshuiataxgen. nov. including four species: Unionicola soluplatussp. nov. U. jinisp. nov. U. caudipessp. nov. and U. armatallasp. nov. This marks the first description and documentation of these subgenera and species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is based on oribatid mite material collected from litter and upper soil stratum of Rhododendron–Lithocarpus mountain forest at a single locality from eastern Nepal. A list of 39 species, belonging to 31 genera and 15 families, is presented; of these, one genus and 11 species are reported for the first time from Nepalese fauna. Two new species – Metrioppia petarberonisp. nov. (Peloppiidae) and Galumna (Galumna) gerdalbertiisp. nov. (Galumnidae) – are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is based on oribatid mite material collected from Malaysia. A list of 23 species, belonging to 19 genera and 14 families, is presented; of these, two genera and five species are reported for the first time from Malaysia. Two new species of Oripodoidea – Muliercula malaysiaensissp. nov. (Scheloribatidae) and Neoribates (Neoribates) pahangensissp. nov. (Parakalummidae) – are described from forest leaf litter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A brief introduction of Chinese Limnesiidae taxonomy is provided. Adults of two new species, Limnesia (Limnesia) lupingae Li & Guo sp. nov. and Limnesia (Limnesia) macrophthalma Li & Guo sp. nov., from Heilongjiang and Hubei provinces respectively, are described in detail. Subtle structures are recorded with scanning electron micrographs. In addition, deutonymphs of two new species are also described in detail and compared with the adults in discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Specimens of Elthusa from trashfish of the Indian SW coast were described as a new parasitic cymothoid, Elthusa nemo sp. nov., (Crustacea: Isopoda). Later, the branchial cavity of the Blotchfin dragonet Callionymus filamentosus Valenciennes, 1837 were documented as its micro- and macro-habitat (host). Methods: Fresh/live specimens of unidentified cymothoid samples were collected from the trash fishes obtained from Neendakara (08°30.0′ N 76°53.30′ E) fish landing centre, Kollam district, Kerala state, southwest coast of India. After a long search for the host species, we recovered the isopod from the branchial cavity of the deep-sea fish Callionymus filamentosus Valenciennes, 1837 (Callionymiformes: Callionymidae). The new species is described and illustrated based on ovigerous females. Results: Elthusa nemo sp. nov., has the following sets of combinations of characters: body slightly twisted, elongated, dorsal surfaces smooth, nearly twice as long as greatest width; pleon short, ~ 14% body length, 0.8 times as wide as pereon maximum width; widest at pleonite 2 and narrowest at pleonite 1; only pleonite 1, laterally overlapped by pereonite 7 posterolateral expansion and coxa 7; presence of appendix masculina on pleopod 2; uropods 0.8 times as the length of pleotelson; antenna with two plumose setae on article 4. Conclusion: Elthusa nemo sp. nov., is the sixth species of the genus known from Indian waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free-living amoebae (FLA) are capable of inhabiting diverse reservoirs independently, without relying on a host organism, hence their designation as "free-living". The majority of amoebae that infect freshwater or marine fish are amphizoic, or free-living forms that may colonize fish under particular circumstances. Symphysodon aequifasciatus, commonly referred to as the discus, is widely recognized as a popular ornamental fish species. The primary objective of the present study was to determine the presence of pathogenic free-living amoebae (FLA) in samples of discus fish. Fish exhibiting clinical signs, sourced from various fish farms, were transferred to the ornamental fish clinic. The skin, gills, and intestinal mucosa of the fish were collected and subjected to culturing on plates containing a 1% non-nutrient agar medium. The detection of FLA was conducted through morphological, histopathological and molecular methods. The construction of the phylogenetic tree for Acanthamoeba genotypes was achieved using the maximum likelihood approach. The molecular sequence analysis revealed that all cultures that tested positive for FLA were T4 genotype of Acanthamoeba and Acanthamoeba sp. The examination of gill samples using histopathological methods demonstrated the presence of lamellar epithelial hyperplasia, significant fusion of secondary lamellae, and infiltration of inflammatory cells. A multitude of cysts, varying in shape from circular to elliptical, were observed within the gills. The occurrence of interlamellar vesicles and amoeboid organisms could be observed within the epithelial tissue of the gills. In the current study, presence of the Acanthamoeba T4 genotype on the skin and gills of discus fish exhibiting signs of illness in freshwater ornamental fish farms was identified. This observation suggests the potential of a transmission of amoebic infection from ornamental fish to humans, thereby highlighting the need for further investigation into this infection among ornamental fish maintained as pets, as well as individuals who interact with them and their environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uropodina mites are organisms regularly found in the breeding sites of vertebrates. However, studies devoted to the nest dwellers of hole-nesting birds have been performed nearly exclusively in artificial places, i.e., nest boxes. Here, we describe an assemblage of mites from the Uropodina group living in excavated tree holes. We performed this study in western Poland, sampling material from 49 tree holes excavated by great spotted and black woodpeckers. We divided the material extracted from the tree holes into three categories: wood debris, remnants of bird nests, and remnants of insects. In total, we found 12 species from the Uropodina group. The two most numerous species, Leiodinychus orbicularis and Chiropturopoda nidiphila, constituted ca. 93% of the assemblage. Two other species, Apionoseius infirmus and Uroobovella obovata, were also relatively frequent. Among the assessed factors (woodpecker species, tree hole characteristics, and type of material), only the presence of insect remains, predominantly bat guano, affected species diversity and mite abundance the most. Our study is the first to describe an assemblage of Uropodina species in excavated tree holes and discover two extremely rare mite species, Ch. nidiphila and Nanteria banatica, related to the presence of bat guano in these cavities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Protozetes (Oribatida, Microzetidae) is recorded in Guatemala for the first time. A new species—Protozetes janosbaloghisp. nov.—is described from damp litter in an alpine cloud forest in Guatemala. It differs from all known species of the genus in the number of the interlamellar apophyses, the morphology of the head of the bothridial seta, the ornamentation of the pteromorph, and the length of the interlamellar and notogastral setae. A revised generic diagnosis is presented. An identification key and data on distribution and habitat of the known species of Protozetes are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of oribatid mites of the superfamily Oripodoidea—Peloribates (Peloribates) ausobskyisp. nov. (Haplozetidae) and Scheloribates (Perscheloribates) smetanaisp. nov. (Scheloribatidae)—are described from litter and upper soil stratum of Rhododendron–Lithocarpus mountain forest from eastern Nepal. Identification keys to the known species of Peloribates (Peloribates) and Scheloribates (Perscheloribates) from Nepal are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study contributes to the extensive history of research on the family Phytoseiidae in New Zealand, covering nearly a century. We examined phytoseiid specimens in the major repositories, unveiling fifteen species new to New Zealand: Amblyseius andersoni (Chant), A. waltersi Schicha, A. williamsi Schicha, Australiseiulus australicus (Womersley), Euseius elinae (Schicha), Graminaseius graminis (Chant), G. sturti (Schicha), Neoseiulus alpinus (Schweizer), N. californicus (McGregor), N. dieteri (Schicha), N. tareensis (Schicha), Proprioseiopsis anthurii (Schicha), P. cabonus Schicha & Elshafie, P. okanagensis (Chant) and Typhlodromus transvaalensis (Nesbitt), and clarifying the presence or absence status of some species in the country. Additionally, we analysed the diversity and distribution of species in New Zealand, presenting an updated checklist of phytoseiid species in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species belonging to the genera DaidalotarsonemusDe Leon, 1956 and FloridotarsonemusAttiah, 1970 named as Daidalotarsonemus kalyanicus Karmakar & Kayal sp. nov. and Floridotarsonemus boroiae Karmakar & Kayal sp. nov. are described based on the specimens found on the leaves and barks of Indian Ber, Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. from Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of Zetorchella (Oribatida, Caloppiidae)—Z. sandorisp. nov. and Z. andasibensissp. nov.—are described, based on materials collected from Madagascar. An identification key to the known species of Zetorchella is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a checklist and a key encompassing 11 species of Typhlodromus Scheuten (Acari: Phytoseiidae) from Syria, derived from materials collected in this study as well as previous reports. A brief redescription, including setal measurements and some other important characters used to discriminate phytoseiid species, is provided for each species examined. Notably, the species Typhlodromus (Anthoseius) intercalaris Livshitz & Kuznetsov is reported for the first time in Syria, and redescribed based on adult specimens collected from Quercus cerris L. and Quercus infectoria G. Olivier (Fagaceae) trees in Latakia governorate. The examined specimens of this species demonstrated variation in the presence or absence of preanal pores: (1) absent on both sides; (2) present on both sides; (3) present on the left side; and (4) present on the right side. This species was considered a junior synonym of T. (A.) invectus Chant in an earlier study without examination of their type materials. We tried to find the holotype T. (A.) invectus without success. However, according to their original description, T. (A.) intercalaris is distinguishable from T. (A.) invectus by having two pairs of setae on the sternal shield, as opposed to three pairs in the latter species. Therefore, the reason for the redescription provided here is to improve diagnosis and minimize any confusion regarding the species status of the Syrian specimens. This discovery holds significant implications for understanding the biodiversity of phytoseiids in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of the genus Neoribates, N. (Neoribates) conflatussp. nov. and N. (N.) fusiformissp. nov., are proposed and described based on adult material collected from central China, and N. (N.) similis Fujikawa, 2007 is reported in China for the first time. A key to the known members of Neoribates from China is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The generic divisions of the family Teneriffiidae have been dealt with superficially, by which different morphological features were introduced over time to justify the addition of apparently unnecessary genera. The present research provides thorough and detailed insight into the taxonomy of the family Teneriffiidae, and different morphological characters were evaluated. As a result, two genera, Teneriffia Thor and Parateneriffia Thor, were considered valid based on persistent morphological character/s. The other existing genera were synonymized, and a diagnostic key to genera and species of the family Teneriffiidae was developed while four species were synonymized. The family Teneriffiidae Thor has an equivocal and patchy generic history due to a lack of proper diagnostic character/s, causing the addition of an over-sufficient number of genera (i.e., nine) for the 28 described species. The present study aimed to resolve those taxonomic uncertainties related to generic divisions and species assignments by thoroughly reviewing all the published literature of the family, identifying key diagnostic character/s for generic divisions while debating on previously used morphological features. In the present research, only two genera, Teneriffia Thor and Parateneriffia Thor, are considered valid genera in the family Teneriffiidae, based on the absence and presence of palpgenu oncophysis, respectively. The previously used other generic diagnostic characters such as coxal setal formula, pectination strength of leg claws, absence or presence of genital papillae, genital discs, and pedal solenidion have been argued for their inconsistencies. A total of four species were synonymized with the closely related species, while additional notes for six poorly described species are given. Moreover, the key to the genera and species of the family Teneriffiidae is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular genetic analyses of Caribbean populations of the supposedly widespread intertidal oribatid mite Alismobates inexpectatus revealed the existence of a cryptic species. The new species, Alismobates piratus sp. n., shows considerable COI and 18S rRNA gene sequence divergences and although morphometric analyses indicate considerable variation between the taxa, no distinguishing morphological feature could be detected. The extreme intertidal environment is suggested to be responsible for the observed morphological stasis of the two species and vicariance is supposed to be responsible for their speciation. Alismobates piratus sp. n. was found on Hispaniola, Guadeloupe, Barbados and Curaçao indicating a predominant distribution on the Greater and Lesser Antilles, whereas the occurrence of A. inexpectatus is primarily restricted to Central America, the northern Caribbean and the Greater Antilles. Haplotype network analyses indicate distinct geographic structuring and the absence of recent gene flow among the Antillean A. piratus sp. n. populations. Central American and Antillean populations of A. inexpectatus show similar patterns but populations from Bermuda and the Bahamas are characterized by a common origin and subsequent expansion. Genetic landscape analysis demonstrates that vast stretches of open ocean, like the Caribbean Basin and the Western Atlantic, act as rather effective barriers, whereas the continuous continental coastline of Central and North America may facilitate dispersal. Genetic data also indicates that the Gulf Stream plays an important role for the biogeography of intertidal oribatid mites as it may be responsible for the strong link between Central and North American populations as well as for the colonization of Bermuda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species are described from the Rizhao coast along the Yellow Sea. Desmolaimus magnus sp. nov. is characterized by its relatively large body size, faintly striated cuticle, four long cephalic setae, a wide buccal cavity with cuticularized transverse rings, an amphidial fovea at the junction of the buccal cavity and pharynx, a pharynx without a bulb, curved spicules, a gubernaculum with a dorso–caudal apophysis, and an elongated conical tail. Metadesmolaimus robustus sp. nov. is characterized by its relatively large body size, coarsely striated cuticle, spacious buccal cavity with cuticularized rings, six inner labial sensilla setiform, six outer labial setae, and four long cephalic setae. The pharynx is notably muscularized, and the spicules are straight and jointed with a slightly swollen proximal end and a hooked distal end. The gubernaculum is brownish and comma–shaped, and the tail is conico–cylindrical with terminal setae. Phylogenetic analyses using maximum–likelihood and Bayesin inference, based on small subunit and D2–D3 fragment of large subunit rDNA sequences, place Desmolaimus magnus sp. nov. within the framework of the family Linhomoeidae and Metadesmolaimus robustus sp. nov. within Xyalidae. Topology trees at the family level show genera Desmolaimus and Metadesmolaimus as paraphyletic groups, the genus Terschellingia as a monophylectic group, the genus Theristus as a monophylectic group based on SSU sequence, the genus Daptonema as a monophylectic group based on LSU sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Mites are one of the most diverse groups of invertebrates that inhabit a wide range of environments. The acarofauna, and in particular Oribatida, inhabiting the nests of the White Stork and the Black Stork has not been thoroughly explored so far. The material collected from White and Black Stork nests in Poland was analyzed. This study presents original data on species diversity, abundance, density, and the age structure of Oribatida mites inhabiting the nests of two stork species that breed in Poland. Of the mites, the most numerous group was Mesostigmata. The average number of Oribatida (80.2 individuals in 500 cm3) was several times higher in the Black Stork nests than in the White Stork nests. Also, the species diversity of oribatid mites was greater in the Black Stork nests (47 species). The species diversity of oribatid mites was also greater in the Black Stork nests. In addition, we noted the potential importance of White and Black Stork nests for mite dispersion and the evolution of interspecies interactions. The White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) and the Black Stork (Ciconia nigra) are well-known model organisms for the study of bird migration, as well as the selectivity of nesting sites and the choice of living environment. The former breeds mainly in open areas, while the latter inhabits forest areas. The acarofauna, and in particular Oribatida, inhabiting the nests of these species, has not been thoroughly explored so far. Therefore, we analyzed the material collected from 70 White Stork nests and 34 Black Stork nests in Poland, between Poznań and Rawicz, and in Kampinos National Park. Our research has increased the faunal and ecological knowledge of the mite fauna inhabiting the nests of large migratory bird species. Oribatida constituted 5–12% of the total mites identified in the nests of White and Black Storks. Their average number was several times higher in the Black Stork nests (80.2 individuals in 500 cm3). Also, the species diversity of moss mites was greater in the Black Stork nests (47 species). In total, the nests of the two stork species were inhabited by 62 moss mite species, with only 22 recorded in both the White and the Black Storks' nests. The most numerous species included Ramusella clavipectinata, R. fasciata, Oppiella subpectinata, Acrogalumna longipluma, and Scheloribates laevigatus. In addition, we found that juvenile oribatid mites accounted for 0.6% of all the mites in the White Stork nests, with tritonymphs having the largest share, while juveniles in the Black Stork nests comprised 1.4%, of which larvae and protonymphs had the largest share. Our research shows that the nests of large migratory birds provide living space for many mite species. In addition, we noted the potential importance of White and Black Stork nests for mite dispersion and the evolution of interspecies interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phymatodiscidae fam. nov. is diagnosed, with Phymatodiscus as the type genus. A new genus, Bardizon gen. nov., with Bardizon eotvosi sp. nov. (from Indonesia) as the type species, is erected to accommodate the Phymatodiscus species with an eye-like dorsal depression. Six Phymatodiscus species are reclassified as Bardizon: B. aokii (Hiramatsu, 1985), comb. nov., B. haradai (Hiramatsu, 1985), comb. nov., B. oculatus (Hirschmann, 1977), comb. nov., B. kuni (Kontschán & Starý, 2011), comb. nov., B. insolitus (Kontschán & Ripka, 2016), comb. nov., and B. malayicus (Kontschán & Starý, 2012), comb. nov. The new species differs from the previously described congeners in the sculptural pattern, the shapes of the dorsal and ventral setae, and the sculptural pattern of the sternal shield of the male and the genital shield of the female. A list of all known phymatodiscid species is presented. Phymatodiscus titanicus (Berlese, 1905) is moved to the genus Bostocktrachys: B. titanicus (Berlese, 1905), comb. nov. (family Trachyuropodidae). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is based on oribatid mite materials collected from leaf litter in secondary semievergreen tropical forests in Mexico; 85 species from 64 genera and 37 families are found; of these, 15 species are recorded for the first time in Mexico, and three species are recorded for the first time in the Neotropical region. A new species of the genus Mucrobates (Scheloribatidae) - Mucrobates solidarensis sp. n. - is described. An identification key to the known representatives of Mucrobates is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new oribatid mite subgenus of the genus Amboroppia (Oribatida, Oppiidae) - A. (Quintanoppia) subgen. n., with A. (Quintanoppia) defectofossulata sp. n. as type species - is described, based on material collected from Mexico. It can be distinguished from the nominate subgenus by the absence concavities between rostrum and transcostula and behind transcostula, and the presence of strong teeth on lateral sides of prodorsum. A revised generic diagnosis, identification key and data on distribution and habitats of representatives of Amboroppia are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine associated oribatid mites belong mainly to the Ameronothroidea which represent a very small percentage of all Oribatida. Over the last decades the systematics and evolutionary history of this group has been discussed controversially and still there is no consensus concerning several issues. The extreme marine environment may have resulted in parallel morphologies complicating the classification and estimation of phylogeny based on discrete morphological traits. In the present study, we performed a molecular genetic study using a mitochondrial and two nuclear markers to infer the phylogeny of this group. Additionally, we reconstructed the phylogeny of Ameronothroidea based on morphological data using different algorithms. Both methods resulted in largely congruent topologies and highlight the following important points: the Ameronothroidea represent a paraphyletic assemblage; the Podacaridae are a distinct family and should be excluded from Ameronothridae; the Fortuyniidae, Selenoribatidae and Tegeocranellidae constitute a monophyletic lineage; and certain genera of Selenoribatidae need a revision. These results demonstrate that the classification of Ameronothroidea and certain positions within this group need to be thoroughly reconsidered and revised. The present study also shows that phylogenetic estimates based on coded morphological data can be a very helpful tool for verifying and supporting molecular phylogenies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oribatid mite Ghilarovus humeridens Krivolutsky, 1966 (Oribatida, Zetomotrichidae), the type species of the genus originally described from Turkmenistan, is recorded in Iran for the first time. A supplementary description of this species is given with detailed illustrations based on Iranian materials. The main morphological traits of G. humeridens are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subgenus Scheloribates (Topobates) (Oribatida, Scheloribatidae) is recorded in Mexico for the first time. Two new species of the subgenus—S. (T.) moskovchenkoisp. nov. and S. (T.) paramoskovchenkoisp. nov.—are described, based on adults collected from leaf litter from the karst pits in the secondary semi-evergreen tropical forest. Scheloribates (T.) moskovchenkoi is similar to S. (T.) tibetensis in the presence of heterotridactylous legs and long bothridial seta with elongate, lanceolate head having setiform apex, but it differs from the latter by the number of notogastral setae, the different length of notogastral setae, in having sparse small foveolae in dorsoanterior and dorsocentral parts of notogaster, the position of saccule Sa, the presence of tubercle-like process on the trochanter IV, and the absence of translamella. Scheloribates (T.) paramoskovchenkoi is similar to S. (T.) moskovchenkoi in the presence of bothridial seta with elongate, lanceolate head having setiform apex and 13 pairs of notogastral setae, but it differs from the latter in having monodactylous legs and five pairs of notogastral sacculi, strongly reduced pteromorph, the presence of tooth-like process on the trochanter IV, the presence of two longitudinal dorsodistal carinae and concavity between them on the leg tarsi I, II, and in the absence of foveolae on the notogaster and ventrobasal tooth on the leg tibiae I, II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species, Flagellozetes (Cosmogalumna) maolanensissp. nov. and F. (C.) longtanensissp. nov. were discovered among the oribatid mite materials collected in China. Descriptions of two new species are presented based on specimens collected from Guizhou Maolan National Nature Reserve and Guangxi Longtan National Nature Reserve. F. (C.) maolanensissp. nov. can be distinguishable from other species within the subgenus by the combination of the following character states: reticulate pattern in the middle part of notogaster represented by rambling neural ridges, the presence of regularly polygonal reticulation ornamentation on ventral shield, the junction of notogaster and pteromorphs forms a row of ridges, the surface of notogaster porose areas with short striae, and the surface of pteromorphs with sparsely and dispersedly protrusion. F. (C.) longtanensissp. nov. differs from F. (C.) hrioyoshii (Nakamura & Fujikawa) by the smooth surface of prodorsum, the absence of reticulate pattern on pteromorphs, the absence of granules on notogaster porose areas, and the presence of polygonal network sculpture and granules posterior part of ventral plate. This study highlights the unexplored gaps that exist in the fauna of Chinese oribatid mites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biological impact of insect growth regulators (IGRs) pesticides on ecologically important soil oribatid mites' fauna was evaluated using life history parameters in Scheloribates laevigatus (Koch) (Acari: Oribatida: Scheloribatidae), under microcosm conditions. Four novel IGR pesticides namely, Easo 30% WG (Indoxacarb), Kafrozed 5% EC (Chlorfluazuron), Alsystin 48% SC (Triflumuron) and Klegron 10% EC (Flufenoxuron) were tested. Laboratory fresh adults were reared on plaster of Paris (9:1) supplied with fungal food treated with agricultural doses of tested IGR pesticides. There was negligible mortality of individuals in control vessels 3.23%, Klegron 10% EC caused the highest mortality of 35.16 %, and significantly decreased the longevity of adults to 17.26. The growth rate of S. laevigatus decreased in IGRs reared vessels with moderate influence of Kafrozed 5% EC and Alsystin 48% SC, while a significantly toxic effect of Klegron 10% EC on all instars was recorded (P<0.05). Furthermore, fecundity declined to 1.8/day in Easo 30% WG and 1.1 in Klegron 10% EC than the control vessels. Chitin formation in adults was decreased and the hard brown exoskeleton looks pale in all reared vessels treated with IGR pesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on a new species of mite of the genus Julolaelaps Berlese in Republic of Korea. Females and males of a new species, Julolaelaps gigas sp. nov., were collected on a captive giant African millipede, Archispirostreptus gigas (Spirostreptida: Spirostreptidae). The new species is described and illustrated based on morphological characters of the adult females and males and compared with known congeners. This new species is the first record of Julolaelaps from Republic of Korea. In addition, an updated key to all known species of the genus is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single‐locus molecular delimitation plays a key role in meeting the need to expedite the exploration and description of the species on our planet. Multiple methods have been developed to aid data interpretation over the past 20 years, but species delimitation remains difficult due to their varying performance. In this study, we examine the accuracy of five widely used delimitation methods (i.e. BIN, ABGD, ASAP, GMYC and mPTP) in analysing 63 empirical data sets that included 1850 mitochondrial COI sequences derived from eriophyoid mites assigned to 456 morphospecies. Our results establish that all five methods resolve approximately 90% of morphospecies. We investigated some factors which might affect the species delimitation results, that is taxonomic rank, number of haplotypes per species, mean number of host plants per species, and geographical distance among sampling sites. We found complex interactions between these factors which affected delimitation effectiveness. An increase in haplotype number negatively affected delimitation accuracy, while increased geographical distance improved delimitation accuracy. BIN was influenced by the number of host plants per species as cryptic speciation linked to host plant usage might be prevalent in eriophyoid mites, while ABGD was not significantly impacted by other factors. Our results highlight multiple factors that affect molecular species delimitation and underline the value of employing multiple analytical approaches to aid species delimitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the investigation on oribatid fauna of agricultural region is carried out for the first time in Yangchun City, Guangdong Province, southeast China. A list of identified taxa, including 19 species from 18 genera and 15 families, is presented. Of these, one species, Dolicheremaeus variolobatus Hammer, 1981, is recorded in China for the first time. 13 species are newly recorded in Guangdong Province. A new species, Unguizetes yangchunensissp. nov., is described. In addition, an updated key to all known species of Unguizetes is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new arboreal species of Arthrovertex (Oribatida, Scutoverticidae)—A. kornilovisp. nov.—is described, based on adults collected from tree branches of Dipterocarpus alatus in Cat Tien National Park, Vietnam. A generic diagnosis, identification key, distribution, and habitats of representatives of Arthrovertex are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Russian species of the genus Paraseiulus Muma (Acari: Phytoseiidae) were reviewed based on the material collected in this study as well as previous literature reports. As a result, a new species, P. pseudoincognitussp. nov., collected from leaves of Ulmus sp. (Ulmaceae) in Omsk Region, Russia, was described and illustrated from adults of both sexes. Moreover, supplementary descriptions and new illustrations of four species, P. incognitus Wainstein & Arutunjan, P. soleiger (Ribaga), P. triporus (Chant & Yoshida-Shaul) and P. xiningensis (Chen & Chu) were provided, based on the newly collected specimens to facilitate species delimitation. In addition, P. intermixtus Kolodochka was proposed as a new junior synonym of P. soleiger, and both P. trimediosetus (Xin, Liang & Ke) and P. inobservatus Kolodochka were synonymized with P. xiningensis. Identification key for the Russian species of the genus was provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors have obtained original material on the fauna and population structure of oribatid mites inhabiting nests of the European Pied Flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca, Passeriformes, hollow-nesting bird) on the territory of the taiga zone of the European North-East of Russia. Long-term research and the collection of nests were carried out in the green zone of Syktyvkar in 2017–2022. Observations were made for artificial nests (hollows) of a box type with a bottom area of 100 cm2. The material of the tray was collected completely. In 135 studied nests of Pied Flycatchers, 1762 specimens were found and identified for 22 species of oribatid mites from 19 genera and 16 families. In the nests of the Pied Flycatcher, a complex of species was found that is known as an arboricolous species for this region; these are Oribatula (Zygoribatula) propinqua, Oribatula (Z.) exilis, Trichoribates (T.) berlesei, and Ameronothrus oblongus. We suggested that arboricolous species, as well as eurytopic species, can actively inhabit bird nests. Highly numerous in our collections were representatives of the Oribatulidae and Scheloribatidae families; they are Oribatula (Z.) propinqua, Oribatula (Z.) exilis, Oribatula (O.) tibialis, and Scheloribates laevigatus. Epigeic species are dominated by the species number. The fauna of oribatid mites mainly included widespread Holarctic species (54.54%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twelve species, 10 genera and five families of Oripodoidea (Oribatida) are registered from leaf litter in secondary semi-evergreen forest in Quintana Roo, Mexico; of them, five species (Nasobates spinosus, Mucrobates fissuratus, Scheloribates milleri, S. (Perscheloribates) minusculus, Protoribates paracapucinus) are recorded for the first time in this country; two species (Muliercula bilineata, Peloribates (Peloribatodes) roynortoni) are found for the first time in the Neotropical region. Two new species—Scheloribates (Perscheloribates) mexicoensissp. nov. (Scheloribatidae) and Setoxylobates palaciosvargasisp. nov. (Haplozetidae)—are described. An identification key to the known species of Scheloribates (Perscheloribates) from the Neotropical region is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]