Survey of predatory mites in the kingdom of Lesotho (Africa): notes on altitudinal preference of predatory mites and description of a new species (Acari: Phytoseiidae)

Abstract

During a field survey of predatory mites in the different geographical zones of Lesotho, 13 species, including a new species, were recorded. Among them, Amblyseius addoensis (Van der Merwe and Ryke) was found common in the lowlands and Senqu valley. Amblyseius sehlabatei n. sp. was common in foothills and mountains. Observations showed that there is an altitude-floral species link. Further ecological studies are required to confirm such a hypothesis.

Key words :

• Acari
• Phytoseiidae
• predatory mites
• A. sehlabatei n. sp.
• Lesotho