Uroobovella phoenicicola sp. n., a new Uropodina mite (Acari: Mesostigmata) associated with the African palm weevil (Rhynchophorus phoenicis Fabricius, 1801) from Cameroon

Abstract

A new Uropodina mite was collected from cocoons and the body of the African palm weevil (Rhynchophorus phoenicis Fabricius, 1801) in Cameroon. The new species belongs to the Uroobovella minima species-group; it differs from the previously described species in the dorsal and ventral setation in both sexes, and in the shape and sculptural pattern of the genital shield of the female. Original drawings and a description are given, accompanied by notes on the presumed biology and possible role in the biological control of African palm weevils.