Fauna Of India: Acari: Cryptostigmata

About this book

Language: English

Mites, especially oribatids, are very important due to their immense contributions towards soil fertility through decomposition of organic matter, and as biocontrol agent. These mites also act as vectors of anoplocephaline cestodes causing discomfort to domestic animals. The mites belonging to Oribatei Inferiores, one of the two major divisions of Oribatida or Cryptostigmata, are considered as a major contributor in the process of organic decomposition as they are present in soil and litter in enormous numbers. They are also sometimes acting as agricultural pest.

This book is a consolidated account of all the species of Oribatei Inferiores (Acari: Cryptostigmata) so far known for India. It includes descriptions, illustrations, synonymies, distribution, taxonomic keys for identification of various taxonomic categories encompassing 170 species under 42
genera and 16 families. The volume also provides a general discussion on habitat, food habit, biology, general morphology of the oribatid groups, economic importance, methods for collection, preservation, mounting, rearing, systematic position, etc.