Aspects of the biology, behavior and mating of Uroactinia sp. (Acari: Mesostigmata: Uropodina: Uroactiniidae).

The mating process in Uroactinia sp. (Mesostigmata: Uropodina: Uroactiniidae) is described. Mating is venter to venter with the male on top. Spermatophore production is relatively slow, and both partners cooperate in emptying the spermatophore. Observations on mating behavior are compared with those for other Uropodina. Spermatophore morphology and the process of spermatophore formation appear to be similar to those described in ticks (Ixodida). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]