Insect Diversity and Biology

Dear Colleagues,

Acari (mites and ticks) are an incredibly diverse group, with an estimated 930,000 to 150,000,000 extant species, although only a fraction of them is known. Acari are important from various aspects, contributing to the global terrestrial decomposer food chain by breaking down plant litter and wood materials (Oribatida); being parasites of vertebrates (Ixodida) or agricultural pests (Eriophyoidea, Tetranychoidea); transmitting dangerous pathogens to humans, animals and plants; and playing a crucial role in biological pest control as voracious predators (Phytoseiidae) that can replace chemical pesticides.  House dust mites cause allergies in approximately 30% of humans. Acari are also interesting from an evolutionary perspective as ancient asexuals, persisting for millions of years without sexual reproduction and because they form intimate associations with an array of bird, mammal, and arthropod hosts. This Special Issue is aimed at providing selected contributions on advances in phylogenetics, diversity, evolution, systematics, and ecology of mites and ticks.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Phylogenetics;
• Systematics;
• Evolution and co-evolution;
• Biodiversity;
• Ecology;
• Host associations;
• The role of mites in agriculture and medicine.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Pavel B. Klimov
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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• phylogenetics
• systematics
• evolution and co-evolution
• biodiversity
• ecology
• host associations
• role of mites in agriculture and medicine