Phoretic and ectoparasitic mites (Acari) of the Chrysomelidae

Abstract

The Heterocoptidae, Canestriniidae, Podapolipidae (Astigmata) and Hemisarcoptidae (Prostigmata) are the mite families most commonly reported as chrysomelid associates. Heterocoptids and canestriniids are predominantly commensals on cassidines and hispines; they are probably abdominal exudatophagous or fungivorous. Podapolipids and hemisarcoptids have been found parasitising leaf beetles; their potential as biocontrol agents remains experimentally undocumented. Apparently, there are no predatory acarines specific to chrysomelids. The impact of mites on leaf beetle populations appears to be limited. Abiotic factors such as temperature, relative humidity, and biotic factors such as host plant characteristics, ant predation, and insect parasitism are probably more important than acarines in regulating leaf beetle populations.