A taxonomic study of the subfamily spinibdellinae (bdellidae : prostigmata : acari) of Southern Africa

Abstract

Microtaxonomic (alpha level) study of the Spinibdellinae (Bdellidae: Prostigmata) of Southern Africa was done. It is the first study of its kind on this subfamily. Soil samples were collected and extracted using conventional methods. Mites were preserved in 70% ethanol, cleared in lactic acid, mounted in PV A and light microscopic studies done. Mites were also prepared by standard methods for electron microscopy. Scanning Electron Microscopic studies were used to confirm existing diagnostic characteristics within the subfamily. Keys to the subfamilies, genera of Bdellidae, Spinibdella and Biscirus of Southern Africa are constructed. Nine new species of the genus Spinibdella are described and figured . Different ontogenetic stages are included in the descriptions. The new species are: Spinibdella citrealla; S. trinomma; S. polyattenuata; S. ankylotricha; S. pongolensis; S. namibiensis; S. constricta; S. namaromae and S. astrapha. A redescription of S. thori (Meyer & Ryke, 1959) is presented. Description of onto genetic stages of S. cronini (Baker & Balock, 1944) is given.