We studied adaptations to subterranean environments in Acari. Mite populations of two caves and of the mineral horizon of soil from three forest sites were analysed. In the soil, body length was limited by the pore size. The proportions of (i) predators, (ii) phoretic mites, and (iii) primitive oribatids were higher in caves. This was potentially explained by (i) polyphagy or predation on other groups and reduced interspecific competition, (ii) the fragmented structure and liability to flooding of the cave habitat, and (iii) the higher humidity in caves. Adaptations to dry habitats probably greatly influenced the evolution in Oribatida. It is proposed that numerous mites colonized caves directly from deep soil without a surface stage.
The genus Picobia Haller (Acari: Syringophilidae) is revised. The species of this genus are permanent parasites living in quills of bird body feathers. In total 19 species are recognized. Four new species are described from passerine birds (Passeriformes): Picobia locustella sp. n. from Locustella naevia (Sylviidae), P. biarmicus sp. n. from Panurus biarmicus (Panuridae), P. sturni sp. n. from Sturnus vulgaris (Sturnidae) and P. cissa sp. n. from Cissa chinensis (Corvidae). Two species are redescribed: P. dryobatis (Fritsch) and P. zumpti (Lawrence). A neotype for P. dryobatis is designated. A new diagnosis for the genus Picobia and a key to females are provided. Parsimony analysis of the genus is conducted. Host-parasite relationships are briefly discussed.
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