Association of a mangrove dwelling euphthiracarid mite, Acrotritia clavata (Markel 1964) (Acari: Oribatida) with the epiphytic alga, Microspora sp.

作者：Syamjith P K^*; Ramani N

来源：International Journal of Acarology, 2013, 39(8): 615-619.

DOI：10.1080/01647954.2013.862568

• Acrotritia clavata
• Microspora sp
• mangrove
• Avicennia marina
• decomposition

Acrotritia clavata (Markel 1964) is an oribatid mite, seen in association with the epiphytic alga, Microspora sp. attached to the mangrove plant, Avicennia marina. Live specimens collected from the Kadalundi-Vallikkunnu community reserve mangrove were reared in culture cells on Microspora sp. The species exhibited voracious feeding on both fresh and decayed filaments of the alga. Intensive feeding resulted in the deposition of large number of green and brown coloured faecal pellets on the bark. Under field conditions, the various life stages of the mite were found closely associated with the algal cushion growing on the twigs/bark of A. marina and they exhibited tunnelling activity and produced heaps of faecal pellets, formed of finely shredded woody elements. The possession of monodactyl legs with elongate, toothed, claws would ensure firm grip on the substrate during regular tidal flooding. The constant association of the mite with algae and bark of mangrove plants coupled with their intensive feeding would enhance the decomposition process in the mangrove ecosystem.

• 出版日期2013-12-1