Water mites (Acari, Hydrachnidia): powerful but widely neglected bioindicators–a review

Abstract

Various biomonitoring methods are used worldwide to evaluate water quality and the ecological integrity of freshwater habitats. Most of these methods are based upon macroinvertebrates, mainly insects, whereas water mites (Hydrachnidia) are widely neglected. In the present review, I summarize the diversity and ecology of water mites and evaluate their potential as bioindicators. Studies correlating water mite assemblages with water quality are presented in a detailed historical overview. Possible constraints to use this group as bioindicators are also discussed. The particular importance of Hydrachnidia in the monitoring of springs is discussed, as well as the state of knowledge on the ecology of neotropical water mites. I present the first data on water mites as bioindicators in streams in Costa Rica and Panama. The need for further research is explained and a call for collaboration is expressed.