Species Diversity and Distribution of Synanthropic Acarid Mites (Acariformes, Acaridia) in Transcarpathia

Abstract

Th is article presents the results of research on the species composition of acarid mites and their abundance in Transcarpathia. 24 species of acarids were identifi ed in the studied substrates. Th e maximum number of species was found in the lowlands — 24, in the foothills — 20, and in the mountainous areas — 17. Th e highest number of mites was collected in the foothills (2031 individuals), and the lowest — in the mountain area (1149). Th e indices of the species diversity of acarid mites in diff erent altitudinal zones were not characterized by signifi cant fl uctuations. A signifi cant correlation (–0.75) was found between altitudinal zonation and the number of mites species. Th e lowest indicators of species richness and number of acarid mites were identifi ed in hayloft s, regardless of their zonal distribution. On the other hand, in the other synanthropic sites we studied, the greatest diversity of mites was found in storehouses and the maximum number of mites in barns.