The oribatid mite genus ceratorchestes (Acari: Oribatida: Peloppiidae)

Abstract

The neotropical oribatid mite genus Ceratorchestes comprises four species. A new subgenus, Ceratorchestes (Paraceratorchestes) n. subgen., is proposed. It is distinguishable from the nominate subgenus, Ceratorchestes (Ceratorchestes), by the length of the epimeres III + IV and the localization of setae on epimere IV. A new species, Ceratorchestes (Paraceratorchestes) variabilis n. sp., is described and illustrated. The morphology of the gnathosoma and legs is presented and represents the first such data for a member of this genus. An identification key to all known species of Ceratorchestes is given. © Ermilov S.G. and Kalúz S.