The dimidiatus species group of the genus Macrocheles Latreille, 1829 (Acari: Macrochelidae): introduction, origins, infragroup relationships, and redescription of Macrocheles dimidiatus Berlese

Abstract

The dimidiatus species group of the genus Macrocheles is morphologically defined and the ecology and origins of its phoretic associations with scarabaeid dung beetles in the New World are discussed. Species complexes and selected clusters of the dimidiatus group are keyed, and an expanded description of Macrocheles dimidiatus Berlese, based in part on examination of Berlese's type material, is presented. This paper will provide the basis for an upcoming taxonomic review of the dimidiatus species group.

Key words :

• Acari
• Macrochelidae
• Macrocheles dimidiatus Berlese
• ecology
• dimidiatus species group
• New World dung beetles
• phoresy