An unusual new species of Neocypholaelaps (Acari: Ameroseiidae) from the nests of stingless bees (Apidae: Meliponinae)

Abstract

A new species of Neocypholaelaps (Ameroseiidae) is described from the nests of stingless bees (Apidae: Meliponinae) from Malaysia. Neocypholaelaps phooni Baker & Delfinado-Baker, n. sp. is unusual among ameroseiids in that it shows morphological specialization found in certain Hypoaspidinae-Laelapidae species inhabiting stingless bee nests. Hypertrophy of certain body and leg setae to form attachment organs is a common feature of this group. The 11 known species of Neocypholaelaps are primarily tropical in distribution. They occur on various tropical and sub-tropical flowers, and they are believed to be pollen feeders. The mites use the bees (Apis and Trigona spp.), moths and butterflies as means of dispersal. An identification key to Neocypholaelaps species is given as well as distribution and a list of hosts.