A new genus and new species of macronyssid mite (Mesostigmata: Gamasina: Macronyssidae) from Brazilian caves including molecular data and key for genera occurring in Brazil

Abstract

A new genus and a new species of macronyssid mites is described based on material collected from caves in Minas Gerais state, Southeastern Brazil, and additional occurrences from caves in Rio de Janeiro (Southeast) and Pará (Eastern Amazon region). The new genus may be distinguished from other Macronyssidae genera by the combination of sternal shield with a distinct X-shaped area; sternal shield bearing three pairs of setae and two pairs of pores; sternal gland absent; anterior spur on coxa II lacking; adults with dorsal shield entire and j and J series complete; adults and protonymphs with setae J5 minute; males with strong-pores on dorsal shield and peritrema short extending from posterior margin of coxae II to the anterior margin of coxae IV. A key for genera occurring in Brazil is provided, as well sequences from the mitochondrial large subunit of ribosome (16S).