Biodiversity of Phoretic Mites in and Around Baramati Tehsil (MS) India

The study of mites is essential due to their significant roles in ecosystems, including processes such as decomposition and pollination. Despite their ecological importance, mite collections are often overlooked in entomological and acarological studies. The purpose of this research was to investigate the biodiversity of mites in various regions of Baramati, located in the state of Maharashtra, India. The findings of the present study significantly enhance our understanding of mite biology and will facilitate future research in the field of acarology. The study was conducted between October 2024 and March 2025. It revealed the presence of three species of phoretic mites belonging to the order Mesostigmata, family Diplogyniidae, Macrochelidae and Parasitidae belonging to three genera: Diplogynium, Macrochilus and Parasitus. These findings indicate a diverse acarine fauna within a relatively short timeframe. This research highlights the importance of systematic collection and identification of mites to gain insights into their diversity across different habitats. It encompasses a range of species, from common to rare, thereby serving as a valuable resource for the exploration of mite diversity, ecology, and evolution.