The oldest continuous association between astigmatid mites and termites preserved in Cretaceous amber reveals the evolutionary significance of phoresy.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Among minute-sized and wingless arthropods, astigmatid mites stand out for their diverse range of symbiotic associations (parasitic, neutral and mutualistic), with both invertebrate and vertebrate hosts. When inhabiting discontinuous and ephemeral environments, astigmatid mites adapt their life cycle to produce a phoretic heteromorphic nymph. When feeding resources are depleted, phoretic nymphs disperse to new habitats through phoresy, attaching to a larger animal which transports them to new locations. This dispersal strategy is crucial for accessing patchy resources, otherwise beyond the reach of these minute arthropods. In Astigmata, the phoretic nymph is highly specialized for dispersal, equipped with an attachment organ and lacking a mouth and pharynx. Despite the c

SUBMITTER: Sendi H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11853500 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature