Trachymolgus purpureus sp. n., an armored snout mite (Acari, Bdellidae) from the Ozark highlands: morphology, development, and key to Trachymolgus
2011

New Armored Snout Mite Species from the Ozark Highlands

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): J. Ray Fisher, Michael J. Skvarla, Gary R. Bauchan, Ronald Ochoa, Ashley P.G. Dowling

Primary Institution: Department of Entomology, University of Arkansas

Hypothesis

What are the morphological and developmental characteristics of the newly described mite species Trachymolgus purpureus?

Conclusion

The study describes a new species of armored snout mite, Trachymolgus purpureus, highlighting its unique morphology and developmental stages.

Supporting Evidence

  • Trachymolgus purpureus has a heavily armored body with distinctive integument.
  • The species was collected from various microhabitats in the Ozark highlands.
  • Developmental stages of the mite were illustrated and discussed.

Takeaway

Scientists found a new type of tiny mite in the Ozark Mountains that has a hard shell and looks different from other mites.

Methodology

Mites were collected from leaf litter and examined using various imaging techniques including low-temperature scanning electron microscopy.

Limitations

The study's findings are based on a limited number of specimens collected from specific locations.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3897/zookeys.125.1875

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