Whirligig Mite
Anystis baccarum
This record describes Anystis baccarum (species). Recorded family: Anystidae. Recorded order: Trombidiformes.
Identification and Appearance
Feeds on some pests of apple trees and other fruit trees. It is studied as possible biological control.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Trombidiformes
- Suborder
- Prostigmata
- Superfamily
- Anystoidea
- Family
- Anystidae (Whirligig Mites)
- Subfamily
- Anystinae
- Genus
- Anystis (Whirligig Mites)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Worldwide distribution
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Small insects and other mites.
Life History
No males, reproduction by parthenogenesis.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Author: Linnaeus
About Mites: the wider group
Order-level background for Trombidiformes, the group containing Anystis baccarum. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Trombidiformes includes ~26,000 described species of mites including velvet mites, chiggers, and spider mites. Spider mites (Tetranychidae) are among the most destructive agricultural pests worldwide.
Ecological role of the group
Velvet mites are important soil predators. Chigger larvae are parasitic on vertebrates and can cause intense itching (trombidiosis). Some mite species are used as biological control agents against pest mites in agriculture.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Spider mites cause billions of dollars in crop damage globally, affecting over 1,100 plant species. The two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) has developed resistance to more pesticides than any other arthropod.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, agricultural pest management research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Whirligig Mite (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , Chuck Entz
Frequently Asked Questions About Whirligig Mite
What is Whirligig Mite?
Whirligig Mite (Anystis baccarum) is a species in the family Anystidae, within the order Trombidiformes.
Where is Whirligig Mite found?
Range: Worldwide distribution
What does Whirligig Mite eat?
The diet of the Whirligig Mite includes Small insects and other mites..
What is the life cycle of a Whirligig Mite?
No males, reproduction by parthenogenesis.