Bdellid Snout Mite

ANIMALIA » ARACHNIDA (arachnids) » ACARI (mites & ticks) » ACARIFORMES (mites) » TROMBIDIFORMES (trombid mites)
Family Bdellidae (snout mites)

Description
This mite is amongst one of the first mites ever to be described. They are medium to large sized predatory mites which are readily recognized by an elongated, snout-like gnathosoma and by elbowed pedipalps bearing 2 long terminal setae.

Life History
They feed on other arthropods like springtails, small insects and other mites, including their eggs. They harpoon their prey with a jet of saliva and attach it to the substrate with silk threads like shrouds.

When Seen, Habitat, Status & Distribution
Seen all year round, found in most habitats, including gardens, inhabiting soil, leaf litter and leaves.

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