Further mechanistic insights into the trophic design of free-living mites

Recent advances in the ecomorphological understanding of how gnathosomal features work as food processing tools relevant for astigmatan mites of economic importance and mesostigmatid predators are described. Engineering analysis is used. New unpublished acarine morphological results are included. Underbite and overbite in cheliceral chelae are exemplified and their function debated. Features for acarologists to search for in fluid handling are highlighted. The Rollplatte is re-evaluated. Designs for browsing, grazing and liquid feeding are discussed. Other topics covered include mites in cadavers, curve and hole cutting, sword-like designs, and prising open, cracking and tearing adaptations. A variety of tool types remain to be found in acarines.