Trematurid mites (Mesostigmata: Uropodina) associated with bark beetles (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) in Mexico

Abstract

Phoretic mites associated with bark beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae) play crucial roles in forest ecosystems, yet their diversity and distribution in Mexico remain understudied. This study aims to identify the species of the family Trematuridae (genera Trichouropoda and Oodinychus) associated with bark beetles across major coniferous forests in Mexico and to describe their host specificity and attachment patterns. A total of 1,713 bark beetles belonging to nine species were examined from 24 Mexican states. Mites were collected from the host bodies, galleries, and collection vial sediments. Eleven trematurid species were identified. Mites were recorded in ten states, with Trichouropoda polytricha being the most widespread and generalist species, associated with seven host species. A significant disparity in mite prevalence was observed among hosts, ranging from 1.57\% in Dendroctonus mexicanus to 25.58\% in D. rhizophagus. Phoretic deutonymphs exhibited a clear preference for specific attachment sites, primarily the ventral surface (29\%) and gular area (22\%). Furthermore, the presence of mites in both new and old galleries confirms these structures as essential micro-ecosystems for their biological cycle. Our findings highlight a high degree of host plasticity in certain species and a complex symbiotic relationship within the gallery environment. This research provides a fundamental baseline for future studies on the ecological impact of mite-beetle associations in Mexican forest health.