Notes on the embryological development of the Brevipalpus yothersi (Acari: Tenuipalpidae)

Abstract

Mites of the Brevipalpus genus are economically important due to their role as vectors of plant viruses. Among them, B. yothersi is well studied because it is the recognized main vector of the citrus leprosis virus C (CiLV-C), the causal agent of citrus leprosis, which is one of the most damaging viral diseases in the citrus crops. However, studies of several aspects of the biology of B. yothersi are still scarce, including its embryology. We performed a descriptive embryonic development study of B. yothersi, utilizing light and scanning electron microscope to obtain biological information of this particular phytovirus vector. Distinct events were recorded, such as centering of the nucleus, mitotic divisions for primitive body formation and appendages, as well as the presence of channels inside the egg and their possible association with the respiratory tract. Here we provide the first notes about embryonic development of this important mite vector in the Americas.