Morphological ontogeny and ecology of Ceratozetes parvulus (Acari: Oribatida: Ceratozetidae)

Abstract

The morphological ontogeny of Ceratozetes parvulus Sellnick, 1922 is described and illustrated. Some aspects of its ecology are also investigated. The juveniles of this species have short prodorsal and gastronotal setae, tubercles and transverse folds on the gastronotum and setiform bothridial seta. Most leg setae are short, thick and strongly reduced (lack of setae l’ on femur III of deutonymph and tritonymph, pl on tarsus I, it on all tarsi, and pv on tarsus IV of nymphs), which are unique in Ceratozetes Berlese, 1908. This species is common in peatlands, where it seems to prefer specifically drier microhabitats, like hummocks.